the Land of Beauty and Savagery
Reader notice: This short story will be constantly updated, As it is in the manner of a Journal, as well as a 3rd person narrative. And once again I must remind all readers that all characters events and circumstances are fiction, the use of images in this short story are randomly selected from google and I do not hold any copyright to them, this short story is solely for entertainment not profit.
Prologue:
This Journal is the only known record of the 1881 British exploratory expedition into the unexplored regions of the North western Canadian Mountainous area.
All photographs of the expedition have been lost, and all survivors of the expedition refused to comment during the official inquiry over the circumstances that lead to the groups dangerous journey.
What is it that makes us go beyond the map?, What is it that makes us fear the unknown yet also wish to seek it?
My name is Arthur Doyle, I have worked in Natural History Museum in the our empire capital of London for the last 11 years, before that I worked as a professor at the cities University. My expertise is the Paleontology of the period dating back before 10,000 years ago.
I was asked to lead a small expedition into the regions of Northern Canada alongside a rival one Edward Stevenson a Paleontology professor at Oxford University. As well as an known explorer William Castle whom has had years of experience of exploration and survival in the harshest environments.
Yet before anything I must conduct my research before even accepting a position in the expedition.
March 12th 1887
I have begun conducting my research, calling in favors with colleagues of mine in France, as after all Canada was once a French controlled region, Quebec still an example of their influence, with many citizens still remaining French speakers.
After receiving a package today, I have poured through dozens of papers, records from before 1751. French alliances with several Native tribes in the borderline area of the region we are to be exploring, They might be able to provide some form of support for our trip.
Yet just a few minutes ago I found this information, I need to share it with Edward and William. They shall be arriving tomorrow in my office where I shall be explaining my findings.
March 13th 1887
My first meeting with Edward and William has gone rather well.
I have given each piece of information I was able to find, and I am now going to be inputting my research intomy This journal for the record. I shall also put in ruff sketches of images and maps that may be of help.
It would appear that we aren't the first to go into the unexplored region, It appears that in 1749 a Platoon of Fifty French regulars were sent into the area in search of possible native tribes in the hope of gaining more allies.
However for some reason after their departure from the stockade they were not heard from or seen again.
Then after a severe winter a local tribal leader and french Allie came up to the fort claiming that his tribe was Had been for a few several days been harboring and caring for a severely ill young french soldier, the commander of the fort sent riders out with the native leader to see if it was true.
According to the statements the young soldier was a Corporal who was one of the regulars sent into the unknown regions. The statements say that the young man had lost three of his fingers on one hand and two on the other, he had multiple injuries ranging from broken bonesas well as To deep cuts and gashes.
The natives claimed that the found him wandering the forest, wearing a badly torn white french regular infantry uniform and most shockingly they said he wasn't wearing any form of footwear when they found him. He had been wandering the snow covered forest with nothing on his feet. The statement continues with those who found the young man, saying he was almost in a trance when they found him, not able to speak or even stop walking despite them trying to stop him.
It appears that when he was returned to the fort for care, he was questioned by the fort commander, in which according to the commanders statement, he was Babbling about monsters. It was finally reported that he was in shock after meeting with an extremely violent tribe of natives. Which is strange, since according to the records the corporal had been in the new world for over three years working with the Native tribes.
So what is out there that could scare a seasoned, experienced french soldier with knowledge and understanding of the land and the native peoples within it, to the point where he would walk through the frozen forest with nothing on his feet and no winter clothing of any kind.
October 31st 1887
Funding has come forward, the Museum and University is providing all the money required for the expedition to collect all required equipment and tools we would need, alongside the funds necessary to hire local peoples to carry our equipment and supplies.
Alongside this William, Mr Castle is putting forward some of the funds to equip the expedition for certain tools and necessities in the event we have trouble, up to an including fire arms ranging from three Martini Henry's and several Revolvers as well as the Ammunition to go with them.
I am Somewhat uncertain of the requirement for such weaponry. However William has far better experience in the wilderness so the decision is his truth be told.
At present we have Four Martini Henrys and six revolvers. We shall definitely need to hire some extra hands when we get Canada.
The date for our set off is set and the boat is waiting, I leave for Plymouth tomorrow and for the adventure into the unknown.
November 3rd Plymouth harbor
We have begun our journey, the ship we have embarked is one that I must say is rather impressive, yet that is my opinion. It may be a wooden construct but wooden ships have carried man for thousands of years.
We set out during the early hours of yesterday afternoon, Our port of call in the Americas is Quebec. From there we shall arrange transport towards the unexplored regions where hopefully we can find native tribes to provide us with some help.
For the last few hours though I have continued to go through the many documents I collected during my research. And as I have previously recorded there had previously a French expedition during well over a hundred years ago.
Yet it seems that was the last major expedition, there was in fact smaller less well documented expeditions. One was by a small Scottish company which focused on hunting for, trading and selling of fine furs.
There is extremely very little information on this minuscule expedition as technically it wasn't an actual expedition, it was merely a hunting party that went into the wilderness in the hopes of gaining a good stock of beaver pelts.
When they didn't return a search party was sent out, all they found was an abandoned camp, containing certain materials and tools required for survival, none of the men nor their bodies were ever found.
Another was of a British Earl, with a love of hunting, one Richard Blake alongside his wife and seven year old son as well as a group of native trackers were presumed dead after they failed to return to their encampment south west of Hudson Bay. According to the records, they were all presumed killed by an act of nature, such as a storm or winter snow storm.
Yet this making me consider what is in this territory, why is it that a whole platoon of fifty french soldier disappeared with only one returning with his mind broken? What would make a group of veteran Scottish fur hunters abandon their camp and all their equipment? And why is that no one has ever found their remains?
These are questions that plague my mind, perhaps we may find some answers with our adventure, I can only hope that we are more fortunate than those who went into the unknown before us.
November 6th Atlantic ocean
3 days at sea and I cannot hold my stomach at all hours of the day and night.
I am wondering why it is we cannot not seem to hold are balance in this weather, I can only hope that the weather passes soon.
December 3rd Rupert's Land North America
We have been in the Americas for several weeks now, trying to organize transport and assistance for our expedition. One reason I have not kept this journal is proper order. However we have had some luck in our preparations, for on our travels to our staging ground, from which we shall truly set off into the unknown we have met some rather helpful characters, a missionary one Father Theodore James a rather elderly gentlemen and classical Christian believer, who still holds onto the belief that God created the earth as it is. Has agreed to provide us his assistance as he has met several times with the local Indian tribes that live close to the unexplored regions.
Also lending her aid is the good fathers adopted Daughter Miranda Strand, whom I find easier to talk too because she seems to have a more moderate view of the world and the many beliefs within it, she is rather bright for her age being around the area of Twenty years, and more surprisingly to myself and William.
She prefers to wear trousers in her day to day activities. She claims that she finds it easier to move around in trousers than dresses, and has been like this since she was a little girl.
Either way I do believe that with both of their language skills we shall have a greater chance in gaining the support of the native peoples whom still have yet to join the civilized world. And in turn with their support we shall be able to take along with us more equipment and supplies into the region we hope to gain an understanding of.
December 12th Base camp
We have reached our first check point, and have had to put a hold on our expedition, we had hoped that by hiring local natives we might be able to move during the winter and reach the unexplored regions.
Though we had not expected a very severe winter, we have been advised and almost ordered to put a hold on our expedition, until the snows melt and the passages into the mountains are open.
Our time of waiting has come with some fortune, Miranda has managed to convince a local tribal elder to join us on our travels, both to help us and also to ensure we do not disrespect the customs and traditions of the local tribes.
He calls himself Abraham, and although he was born a native, he has some understandings of the christian faith, yet he remains close to his ancestral beliefs focused on Animal Spirits. A very strange mix, even the way he gives his appearance is a mixture, wearing a configuration of native clothing and more modern foot and leg wear such as leather boots and trousers.
He holds his ancestral hair style as well because he has the sides of his head completely shaved and the top of his greying black hair into a small wolfs tail bobble behind his head. Atop his head he seems to wear an old top hat, with feathers tied either upon it or dangling from it.
Hopefully very soon we shall be underway and move into the unknown and learn what we can of the this worlds mysteries.
December 25th 1887
Christmas day, And still my Christmas wish has yet to have, All I want to is to go into the wilderness.
And yet still all we've seen is the mountains far beyond just within the horizon, through the snow, blizzards and pine trees. However there is some good news, Abraham was able to make contact with a native tribe in the borderline area of the unexplored.
He says that he was able to negotiate a deal where we can stay with them until the snows clear and we can also hire some of their hunters to carry our equipment and supplies.
With luck we shall soon be on our way.
January 20th 1888
We have had a great streak of luck, The worst of the snows have melted allowing the passes into the mountains are capable of movement.
Benjamin has being leading us through the mountains towards the unknown regions and towards the discoveries that lie within them.
February 4th 1888
We have finally reached the unexplored regions, I my god its beauty even with winter still holding its grip. The pine trees still covered with snow crystals, the wind whistling through the tree, valleys and gullies that seem to fill the unknown land.
February 6th 1888
Our luck seems to have come dry as during the night a quick frost came through the mountains, Abraham and the other natives have been huddled around the fire, telling frightening tales and stories.
Miss Strand has become insistent that I begin calling her Miranda, which I have been attempting to do so. She has been rather helpful in translating these stories and tales that the natives are discussing, they seem to be telling the tale of people disappearing in these forests never to be seen or heard from again.
Some of them say that have heard that these Forests harbor the pathway to the spirit world. Others say that a brutal and warmongering tribe live in these mountains and would sooner kill outsiders than speak to them. Yet I do not believe so.
Abraham has been telling one tale that intrigues us all, the tale of a Group of Frenchmen who went into these forests, never to be heard from for many months. This must be the same French Military expedition that disappeared a hundred years ago.
He says how it was his tribe who found the only survivor, of how the soldier raved like a lunatic, shouting and rambling about monsters with fangs as long as Bayonets, men with Antlers and skulls for head.
A land of Beauty and Savagery he seemed to call it. Yet I paid little attention after such because I am a scientist, and scientists do not follow stories or tales we follow evidence towards the facts.
February 11th 1888 Morning 10.00 O'clock
Our luck has still run dry, as things have gone from bad to worse. During the night something came into the camp, Something that seems to have scared the our native baggage carriers.
During the early hours of the morning,William, Mr Castle has looked at the tracks and believes it to be a bear that woke up from Hibernation early and was hoping to find something to eat. Though it seems that all of the natives we brought with us Excluding Abraham who has decided to remain have deserted us, with heavy snows surrounding us.
William and Abraham both agree that for the moment we should head for the mountains, try and find some caves upon which we can shelter out the worst of the weather with only what we require, so only food, water, medicines, clothing and weapons of course. after which we shall then try and return to the Natives village some weeks rugged walking away.
February 11th Evening
We have finally Managed to find a suitable cave, that we can shelter within.
Though what we first thought to be a shallow crevice like Cave has turned out to be a greater underground network of natural tunnels that were so high I could jump and barely touch to ceiling, but in some areas the space between the walls made it very difficult to move. It was within these tunnels that we have found some curious items and shocks.
First as we made our way into the tunnels Miranda found something it was an old pocket sized pistol from well over 30 years ago, its small size meant that it could only hold one bullet, but sadly for us it was rusted away beyond use, yet Miranda did manage to make out a date on its side, it said 1843.
Our first thought was that someone was here some time after 1843, but who?
Then as we made our way further and further in we found something that became more interesting, we found cave paintings along the walls and ceiling of the tunnel. their artwork astounded us all, the images were off people and great beasts ranging from animals that looked like deer and rhinos?, as well as what looked like some kind of bear. We were all amazed how the paintings seem to dance in the flicker of our fire torches and whale oil lamps.
But as we moved through the many different tunnels we found something ever more frightening, laying withing the stones, rocks and pebbles at one of the many dead ends, we found a skeleton.
We were all frightened by the sudden appearance of this unfortunate soul, Edward and I examined the skeleton to find no sign of Fossilization, who ever this was he was not one of our ancestors.
Then Abraham found something a collection of papers, rotting away, He said he couldn't read it for it was in a language he did not know. To which he handed it to Miranda and the good Father.
The Father stated that it was in french and that it seemed to be a journal from the tone of the words, most of which he couldn't read due to the decay of the paper.
But he was able to find some words that were still readable.
"We have finally escaped, we have found the tunnel we fell through and are using it for shelter, We started this Journey with 50 men, now we are two. I have told the Lumere to go on without me for I am a lost cause.
Despite multiple refuses, he has finally left me, he must survive so that no others come this way, so that no others fall into Hell on Earth"
He continued on saying that the end was coming for him and that he would soon pass, his last clear sentence was "Ne pas entrer dans les tunnels" Do not go into the tunnels. After that he just kept repeating the same words "Vivre France, Vivre 10e bataillon réguliers coloniaux"
Long live France, Long live the Tenth battalion of the colonial Regulars, that was the same French Battalion that disappeared over a hundred years ago. This poor man was one of those who never returned, It is a shame that his name is not within the papers that are still readable.
But what is it that he was mentioning, why should no one enter the tunnels? what did he mean by Falling into Hell on Earth.
February 12th 1888
We now know why, we should not have entered the tunnels, for as we traveled further into the tunnels we fell into some kind of slide like path, that has taken somewhere truly unknown.
We now sit within a large cave, looking out upon a collection different valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see. From what I can tell our cave is at the bottom of a cliff that stands atop a hill.
looking out I can see nothing but trees, oak and pine, but just in the distance I can see what Appears to be a lake.
And We can use the water, since all we have with us are what we had when we fell into this place, which stands at a few blankets, six water containers, a couple cans of vegetables, cans of corned beef, and some smoked fish. Apart from that all we have is our weapons alongside the ammunition for them alongside some pots and pans.
William and Abraham are in favor of going down the hill to find the lake so we can resupply our water and possibly find a route out of the valleys.
February 12th 1888 Evening
Our trip down to the Lake we could see atop our hill, has been somewhat fulfilling. As we made our way down, we walked in single file constantly keeping our weapons readied revolver or rifle. Abraham, William, Miranda and I carried the rifles whilst Edward and the good father held close their revolvers. Abraham watched our backs, with the good father and Edward in front of him, me in the middle Miranda just in front and William taking the lead.
William was very cautious, more cautious than I have ever seen him, he almost seemed terrified taking the lead of our line. Miranda asked him what was the matter to which he answered "Hunters gut.... A feeling a hunter has, when the Predator has become the Prey, when Eyes are watching him".
And I must say I agree with that statement, ever since our accidental fall into these valleys I have felt the constant paranoia of being watched. I believe we all are, each of us keeping our fingers on the triggers of our firearms.
The forest was beautiful but clearly dangerous, although we were taking an easy route down, it made the forest more clearer, there were times that it went completely silent, no Birds, no insects nothing.
When finally we came out of the forest we finally came to see it, the white sand of the lakes beaches, the water of the lake looked beautiful its water was crystal clear, with birds flying above and insects of all kinds buzzing around. William broke our trance on the lake, by insisting we fill as many of our water containers as quickly as possible before something comes along.
As we did so a sound came from the forest, to our left we all looked in the direction and saw something I could not imagine. It was a deer, but one larger than any I have ever seen, we have seen moose, but this was truly larger than even the greatest among them.
Our amazement suddenly ended when William fired his rifle, the great beast screeched out and fell into the sands which now held its own blood splatter.
We were all shocked, He didn't even pause he just shot it, without a second thought.
He just slung the rifle over his shoulder and walked over to the body, pulling a knife from its sheath, knelt down and began cutting into the carcass. He just simply scoffed saying "We need the meat", Abraham agreed, after all we were limited on what food we had in the tin cans.
Yet Edward, Miranda and I became amazed at the deer's size and its immense antlers, Miranda layed down by its front leg, he feet by its hooves, her head only just came to its shoulder. Edward became amazed at the antlers, due to the sheer size, the deer landed its head was like that of a Dog lying on its front, the antlers spread out left and right. He physically layed down in one and he had fitted within it perfectly. How could this creature hold up its head?
Our examination ended, when Abraham insisted we return to the relative safety of the cave atop the hill. And truthfully he was right, if this is the type of deer here, I don't want to know what predators are out there.
We packed what meat we could into our packs next to the filled water containers, and began the long hike up the hill. Yet again there was little excitement when Suddenly as we came closer and closer, Abraham suddenly froze in place.
Miranda Asked him what was wrong, he just pointed to the ground, we all gathered around and saw, a footprint, a human shaped footprint in the dirt and leaves, it was plain to sea, a human shaped foot, and it wasn't there when we left. We approached the cave more cautiously and found that some of our belongings had been moved slightly, packs on theirs sides when we had left them standing.
Certain things had been taken out like our canned foods, knives, clothes even Edwards books. yet nothing was taken.
There is someone out there and they know we are here.
February 14th Morning
Our fear has grown about what is out there.... we have nothing to help us, all we have done for the past two days is simply sit around.
Last night an extreme cold came in, and it truly is a terrible chill. All we've been able to do is huddle with our blankets and our small fire, The Father has come up with an idea that might keep us busy and perhaps even warm, we would construct ourselves some raised beds.
Using some branches and rope we would make something that would allow each of us to get off the cold floor when we sleep.
February 14th Evening
Our beds are made up, simple with just sticks and branches holding them up with rope and reeds for us to lay on. We've just finished the last of the meet from the deer, and are now preparing ourselves for hopefully a good nights sleep, but not all of us apparently Abraham and William have not left their "Post" at the mouth of the cave, their eyes and weapons glued to watching the surrounding forest.
It might be the scare and thought of people being somewhere out there and knowing that we are here has placed them at a state of readiness. Making themselves prepared for any danger that might come for us. All I can do is hope that such danger does not come for us, beyond that my thoughts are of how we might survive here long term if we are forced too.
February 15th Morning
Our beds are very very comfortable, they might be awkward to sleep on at first but once I found my balance on it, I found a state of comfort that I thought lost when we found ourselves in this predicament.
Despite the comfort of the beds though I still feel uneasy, Abraham collected some plants he knew and created a type of native herbal tea. Yet as we sit here around our fire watching the water and herbs boil in one of our metal pots hanging above the flames thanks to a simple collection of sticks and stones to hold items up and cook on.
All I can feel is the constant fear of something out there, someone in that almost seemingly endless forest is a pair of eyes watching us. We all feel it, the strange shiver we feel when looking out as the sun continues to rise up across the valleys.
William is the most disturbed by the feeling he hasn't stopped his work, he has been building a wall of large branches and rocks to form a small wall barely hip high. using some as poles to hold those he places horizontally firmly in place. Yet he said himself its "Little more than a sturdy fence".
Miss Crane...Miranda has been discussing the idea of, going out later today with Abraham to try and collect some plant materials, perhaps some apples, potatoes etc for us to eat. Personally I agree we need to think about living here long term, we can not rely on our limited canned foods forever, we should only use them as a last resort. But like I said I am still uncomfortable of what is out there...
We know of Deer larger than horses.... We know there is someone out there watching..... People have always told me to fear the darkness... but truthfully I believe that we should fear what we do not know
I what I fear is out there.
February 20th 1888 Morning
Our water supplies are running low, Abraham and William are insistent that we take the risk and try and head down to the lake to refill some containers and canteens so that we can keep ourselves in good health.
But I am unsure Miranda volunteered to go and so did William, and strangely enough even though I am scared of what is out there I ended up saying "I'll go too".
Why did I do that?
February 20th 1888 Evening
We are even more afraid now, for during our trip to the lake we experienced two different shocking discoveries.
The first was as we were making our way down the hill, William lead the way with Miranda in the middle and me watching the rear. We decided to attempt an alternate route so that we could try and avoid any dangers out there that might be watching our previous route.
As we did so though we came across something terrifying, we found a great oak tree with a pair of plant covered skeletons. One male and one female.
We inspected them and found that the bones had been gnawed on, some of the bones were covered in marks from teeth. On the skulls we found something very different, they each had small circular holes in the sides of the heads, they shot themselves.
William found the answer, an old hunting rifle with an engraving of initials, R.B could it have been Robert Blake the British Earl who disappeared with his wife and young son. He then found amongst the leaves an old pistol rusted beyond use. William just simply stated that "They must have Saved the last shots for themselves".
But there was just one problem, two skeletons, where was the son, my only thought is that he too is dead and his remains scattered.
And that wasn't even the worst part, as we continued down to the lake, through the trees we could see something amazing. as we got to the edge of the forest, remaining hidden within the bushes and branches, we could see a herd of Mammoth moving along the beach around the lake just in front of us.
As they continued, William noticed something, they were in a hurry and keeping their infants in the middle of the herd. I looked to my left and saw the answer further along the beach was something big, it looked like a bear but I could not be sure at first. William grabbed Miranda and myself and pulled us back and down into the brush. As the creature began to move around the lake in our direction.
As it got closer we could make out more details, it was a dark brown in colour, with stocky front legs. Its body reminded me of a bear very strong muscular limbs. Its head was short like a big cats but in its mouth was something terrifying its upper canines were immense. as long as a butchers knife. It paused just in front of our hiding spot, and began to sniff the air, it was then it looked directly at us, almost directly eye to eye with me.
I fear that if the Mammoths which were now moving up into the forest well along the lakeside hadn't bellowed. Then he would have after us rather than continue to follow them. As soon as he entered the forest, Miranda and I ran as fast as we could filled as many containers as we could and ran back into the forest. We had never moved so fast, we darted back into cover and then beyond, Once we were together again we quickly began to quick march back to our camp, this time taking a route we knew was reasonably safe.
We returned safely and explained what we saw, it was terrifying. I had imagined large predators to be here, after seeing that large deer William killed on our first day, but still to see something like that makes me imagine.
There is something that I didn't tell the others though, for as we were pushing ourselves to fill up on water, after seeing the monster predator, I could see something in the distance, in on of the other valleys. I could see a single column of smoke rising up.
25th July 1888
I must apologize to any who read this journal, for the extreme and severe gap of information of our time in these valleys for the last few months. But all of our activities have been standard, collecting water from the lake or from the rain pots we've set, gathering apples and other plants to try and prevent us from using our tinned foods.
Other than such activities, our time has been focused on scheduled rest and "Guard duty" on the makeshift wall at the mouth of our little cave. Nothing of true note has occurred, at least not until earlier this morning.
During the early hours of the morning Miranda noticed something coming from the forest, it was a sound, she awoke the rest of us excluding Abraham who was also on guard duty.
And she was right there was something echoing through the trees, it sounded like some kind of a horn, the horn seemed to lower and then rise again in its volume. Almost like a native tribal horn, Abraham explained that it sounded more like either a War horn or one for a great Hunt.
27th July 1888
Winter is fast approaching, even in July snow has shown itself in the wind. even small amounts show that we are now in autumn, and winter is close. William is highly doubting that we haven't the supplies to last a long winter, he says that if snow is falling now then it will be a long cold winter.
Miranda agreed saying that if it will be like that then it shall be even harder to find food in the form of plants and other vegetation. Abraham says that we might be able to last by hunting, but I disagree, we only have so much in the way of ammunition and we can't use it continuously in hunting for food when we need it more for defending ourselves from what is out there.
28th July 1888 Morning
There is the distinct smell of death in the air, itoverpowers all other scents. Encompasses all scents that we have grown accustomed too.
Abraham is insistent that we ascertain what it is causing the smell, so that we might be able to possibly remove it from our immediate area. William has agreed, however Edward and I are against the notion, believing that the smell could be anything, the good father is only against the idea because he is fearful of his dear adoptive daughter going into the dangerous forest.
Yet it seems not to matter, they have decided that Miranda and Abraham head out anyway.
28th July 1888 Evening
We were right not to pry into the foul odor that has surrounded us. For it seemed that the smell was coming from the decomposing carcass of a large deer. The same kind apparently that we encountered during our first day here, it is clear that the immense predator we saw weeks ago is back in the area, and apparently it is hunting.
It seems that it is not the only one, for the very moment that the sun dropped beyond the horizon the wind and rock has been filled with the countless howls of wolves. Some are far away in the distance, so far that their howls are near nothing more than echos.
Yet some are far closer, too close for my opinion, even with the torches we have set at our little wall at the caves mouth and the main fire we have in the cave itself near our beds and survival equipment. All I can feel is that they are out there, wolf packs numbering god knows, and the only stopping them is a simple hip high wall of rocks and branches, and behind them a few scared and tired survivors with a limited amount of weaponry.
29th July 1888
I was right last night, none of our party has achieved even a small measure of sleep, throughout the night the howls of wolves in the distance has echoed through the caves. The growls, crackles and grunts of them fighting over what remained of the decaying deer in the forest, but the very instance the sun began to rise everything has gone silent, the wolves seemed to have vanished.
Not only this, but it seems to be that everything has just vanished, no insects are flying in the air, no birds in the trees. Nothing.
Even the air seems to have slowed, the smell of rotten flesh and death, has gone, the usual smell of pine is gone. The feel of my own hands is like that of a builders, rough and sweaty. And there is ever constant feeling that a pair of eyes is watching us. But what Kind of eyes, curious or dangerous.
30th July 1888 Morning
We have finally gotten some sleep, a small measure, but some at least. We are already thinking of our position and our safety. This morning, a present was left for us at the wall.
It was two pack like objects, fashioned from the pelts of animals with a type of intertwined stems acting as rope tied to either end, so it could be carried on shoulder. One of them was filled with apples and potatoes, the other with fish, fresh as well, we knew that for sure because the scales were still wet from being caught. Next to the packs though was something else, a long branch, with a small carved notch at one end, with it and hooked around it was the same rope like material but much thinner, no thinner that fishing line.
As we collected the gift, William started to get the fire going again so we could smoke the fish to make them last longer. Whilst Miranda, Edward and I looked over the Packs and lone rod like stick. We were amazed, the stitching was simple but methodical, this took time and effort to make and fashion. Not something that someone living under the instinct of survival, look at us our camp was simple, the only thing we have much that is worth much effort was the wall at the cave mouth.
Abraham was interested as well, for he knew the customs of nearly all the local tribes, yet even he was astounded, saying that "None make things such as this anymore", he even continued saying "Nothing in this simple manner". And he was right most natives now work for a living, buy things not fashion them.
Whomever is out there is not a normal person, whomever they are, they are someone who obviously wants to help us, and from the amount of food they have given, is able to find and get enough food to spare some.
31st July 1888
The fish was something else, what we haven't eaten we have smoked as best we could. Abraham has fashioned a kind of stand to hold them up, so hopefully they won't decay or rot away beyond use.
But our thoughts are still on whom is out there, we have all now as of yesterday seen something, William, Abraham, Edward and the good father have seen wolves running through the forest earlier as they made a run to the lake to collect water.
But Miranda and I have seen something else, whilst waiting for them to return from the water run, we glimpsed something or someone running through the trees around our cave, whatever or whomever is watching us is still nearby, and whatever it is they intend. We need to be ready.
It is not just the fear of someone watching us, it is the fact that they are able to move through these trees and bushes without making a single sound, all we only know them to be out there because we catch glimpses of them in the gaps in between each tree.
I can only hope that they reveal themselves, and that they are friends.
5th August 1888
The first snows have begun to fall, all across these valleys. The sun has been completly covered by the clouds it is like when the sun has yet to rise or set, there is light to see, but slightly darkened from the depth of the clouds.
There is a strange beauty to it, the silence of the forest, no birds or insects, not even the wolves with their howls. It is like a moment of peace, calm. A stillness, where you begin to understand that there is a spirit to this land.
Even with all the dangers that surround us, I feel that in this moment, I feel no sense of danger or mortality, like I could just watch the snow fall for all eternity. Who knew that by simply watching the snow fall could make us all feel safe with a small measure of comfort.
5th August 1888 Evening
we all have just sat here around our fire pit, feeling the warmth of the flames and hearing the flicker and crackle of the flames. Yet all of us are watching only the snow fall outside the cave, almost glowing in the light of the torches we have lining our defensive wall, we
We have lost our moment of peace. For a second ago, our attention turned to a set of glowing golden eyes, watching us from across the wall in the forest. From the moment we saw them, we watched them watching us until in a flash they vanished, into the darkness, as if they were never even there.
6th August 1888 Morning
the warmth and comfort has lost us all completely, none of our small group of survivors are feeling anything resembling safety. The world around us continues to become colder and colder as the winter comes close and closer, it is now clearer that we need to prepare ourselves for what is coming.
Miranda is suggesting that we move further into the cave to gain a little more protection from the colder air and the worst of the winter snows. Abraham is in agreement, believing that even moving behind the curve at the back of the cave would give us better protection.
So later today with one our lamps we are going to have a look at the conditions in there.
6th august 1888 evening
We may have lost our feeling of comfort and security, but we have gained amazement and wonder. For the moment we turned around the corner within the cave, Lamp in hand We found something beautiful. Covering the walls and ceiling were beautiful paintings, simple but beautiful, the paintings almost seemed to dance in the light of our lamp and fire torches, the paintings ranged from the simplest stick figures of men with spears, bows and arrows. All the way to animals in the finest details.
The sheer beauty was astounding, we just looked over them each single animal and figure painted upon the walls. I was amazed at them, more than the others in our group, the paintings were old, very old, older than any I have ever seen.
Prologue:
This Journal is the only known record of the 1881 British exploratory expedition into the unexplored regions of the North western Canadian Mountainous area.
All photographs of the expedition have been lost, and all survivors of the expedition refused to comment during the official inquiry over the circumstances that lead to the groups dangerous journey.
What is it that makes us go beyond the map?, What is it that makes us fear the unknown yet also wish to seek it?
My name is Arthur Doyle, I have worked in Natural History Museum in the our empire capital of London for the last 11 years, before that I worked as a professor at the cities University. My expertise is the Paleontology of the period dating back before 10,000 years ago.
I was asked to lead a small expedition into the regions of Northern Canada alongside a rival one Edward Stevenson a Paleontology professor at Oxford University. As well as an known explorer William Castle whom has had years of experience of exploration and survival in the harshest environments.
Yet before anything I must conduct my research before even accepting a position in the expedition.
March 12th 1887
I have begun conducting my research, calling in favors with colleagues of mine in France, as after all Canada was once a French controlled region, Quebec still an example of their influence, with many citizens still remaining French speakers.
After receiving a package today, I have poured through dozens of papers, records from before 1751. French alliances with several Native tribes in the borderline area of the region we are to be exploring, They might be able to provide some form of support for our trip.
Yet just a few minutes ago I found this information, I need to share it with Edward and William. They shall be arriving tomorrow in my office where I shall be explaining my findings.
March 13th 1887
My first meeting with Edward and William has gone rather well.
I have given each piece of information I was able to find, and I am now going to be inputting my research into
It would appear that we aren't the first to go into the unexplored region, It appears that in 1749 a Platoon of Fifty French regulars were sent into the area in search of possible native tribes in the hope of gaining more allies.
However for some reason after their departure from the stockade they were not heard from or seen again.
Then after a severe winter a local tribal leader and french Allie came up to the fort claiming that his tribe
According to the statements the young soldier was a Corporal who was one of the regulars sent into the unknown regions. The statements say that the young man had lost three of his fingers on one hand and two on the other, he had multiple injuries ranging from broken bones
The natives claimed that the found him wandering the forest, wearing a badly torn white french regular infantry uniform and most shockingly they said he wasn't wearing any form of footwear when they found him. He had been wandering the snow covered forest with nothing on his feet. The statement continues with those who found the young man, saying he was almost in a trance when they found him, not able to speak or even stop walking despite them trying to stop him.
It appears that when he was returned to the fort for care, he was questioned by the fort commander, in which according to the commanders statement, he was Babbling about monsters. It was finally reported that he was in shock after meeting with an extremely violent tribe of natives. Which is strange, since according to the records the corporal had been in the new world for over three years working with the Native tribes.
So what is out there that could scare a seasoned, experienced french soldier with knowledge and understanding of the land and the native peoples within it, to the point where he would walk through the frozen forest with nothing on his feet and no winter clothing of any kind.
October 31st 1887
Funding has come forward, the Museum and University is providing all the money required for the expedition to collect all required equipment and tools we would need, alongside the funds necessary to hire local peoples to carry our equipment and supplies.
Alongside this William, Mr Castle is putting forward some of the funds to equip the expedition for certain tools and necessities in the event we have trouble, up to an including fire arms ranging from three Martini Henry's and several Revolvers as well as the Ammunition to go with them.
At present we have Four Martini Henrys and six revolvers. We shall definitely need to hire some extra hands when we get Canada.
The date for our set off is set and the boat is waiting, I leave for Plymouth tomorrow and for the adventure into the unknown.
November 3rd Plymouth harbor
We have begun our journey, the ship we have embarked is one that I must say is rather impressive, yet that is my opinion. It may be a wooden construct but wooden ships have carried man for thousands of years.
We set out during the early hours of yesterday afternoon, Our port of call in the Americas is Quebec. From there we shall arrange transport towards the unexplored regions where hopefully we can find native tribes to provide us with some help.
For the last few hours though I have continued to go through the many documents I collected during my research. And as I have previously recorded there had previously a French expedition during well over a hundred years ago.
Yet it seems that was the last major expedition, there was in fact smaller less well documented expeditions. One was by a small Scottish company which focused on hunting for, trading and selling of fine furs.
There is extremely very little information on this minuscule expedition as technically it wasn't an actual expedition, it was merely a hunting party that went into the wilderness in the hopes of gaining a good stock of beaver pelts.
When they didn't return a search party was sent out, all they found was an abandoned camp, containing certain materials and tools required for survival, none of the men nor their bodies were ever found.
Another was of a British Earl, with a love of hunting, one Richard Blake alongside his wife and seven year old son as well as a group of native trackers were presumed dead after they failed to return to their encampment south west of Hudson Bay. According to the records, they were all presumed killed by an act of nature, such as a storm or winter snow storm.
Yet this making me consider what is in this territory, why is it that a whole platoon of fifty french soldier disappeared with only one returning with his mind broken? What would make a group of veteran Scottish fur hunters abandon their camp and all their equipment? And why is that no one has ever found their remains?
These are questions that plague my mind, perhaps we may find some answers with our adventure, I can only hope that we are more fortunate than those who went into the unknown before us.
November 6th Atlantic ocean
3 days at sea and I cannot hold my stomach at all hours of the day and night.
I am wondering why it is we cannot not seem to hold are balance in this weather, I can only hope that the weather passes soon.
December 3rd Rupert's Land North America
We have been in the Americas for several weeks now, trying to organize transport and assistance for our expedition. One reason I have not kept this journal is proper order. However we have had some luck in our preparations, for on our travels to our staging ground, from which we shall truly set off into the unknown we have met some rather helpful characters, a missionary one Father Theodore James a rather elderly gentlemen and classical Christian believer, who still holds onto the belief that God created the earth as it is. Has agreed to provide us his assistance as he has met several times with the local Indian tribes that live close to the unexplored regions.
Also lending her aid is the good fathers adopted Daughter Miranda Strand, whom I find easier to talk too because she seems to have a more moderate view of the world and the many beliefs within it, she is rather bright for her age being around the area of Twenty years, and more surprisingly to myself and William.
She prefers to wear trousers in her day to day activities. She claims that she finds it easier to move around in trousers than dresses, and has been like this since she was a little girl.
Either way I do believe that with both of their language skills we shall have a greater chance in gaining the support of the native peoples whom still have yet to join the civilized world. And in turn with their support we shall be able to take along with us more equipment and supplies into the region we hope to gain an understanding of.
December 12th Base camp
We have reached our first check point, and have had to put a hold on our expedition, we had hoped that by hiring local natives we might be able to move during the winter and reach the unexplored regions.
Though we had not expected a very severe winter, we have been advised and almost ordered to put a hold on our expedition, until the snows melt and the passages into the mountains are open.
Our time of waiting has come with some fortune, Miranda has managed to convince a local tribal elder to join us on our travels, both to help us and also to ensure we do not disrespect the customs and traditions of the local tribes.
He calls himself Abraham, and although he was born a native, he has some understandings of the christian faith, yet he remains close to his ancestral beliefs focused on Animal Spirits. A very strange mix, even the way he gives his appearance is a mixture, wearing a configuration of native clothing and more modern foot and leg wear such as leather boots and trousers.
He holds his ancestral hair style as well because he has the sides of his head completely shaved and the top of his greying black hair into a small wolfs tail bobble behind his head. Atop his head he seems to wear an old top hat, with feathers tied either upon it or dangling from it.
Hopefully very soon we shall be underway and move into the unknown and learn what we can of the this worlds mysteries.
December 25th 1887
Christmas day, And still my Christmas wish has yet to have, All I want to is to go into the wilderness.
And yet still all we've seen is the mountains far beyond just within the horizon, through the snow, blizzards and pine trees. However there is some good news, Abraham was able to make contact with a native tribe in the borderline area of the unexplored.
He says that he was able to negotiate a deal where we can stay with them until the snows clear and we can also hire some of their hunters to carry our equipment and supplies.
With luck we shall soon be on our way.
January 20th 1888
We have had a great streak of luck, The worst of the snows have melted allowing the passes into the mountains are capable of movement.
Benjamin has being leading us through the mountains towards the unknown regions and towards the discoveries that lie within them.
February 4th 1888
We have finally reached the unexplored regions, I my god its beauty even with winter still holding its grip. The pine trees still covered with snow crystals, the wind whistling through the tree, valleys and gullies that seem to fill the unknown land.
February 6th 1888
Our luck seems to have come dry as during the night a quick frost came through the mountains, Abraham and the other natives have been huddled around the fire, telling frightening tales and stories.
Miss Strand has become insistent that I begin calling her Miranda, which I have been attempting to do so. She has been rather helpful in translating these stories and tales that the natives are discussing, they seem to be telling the tale of people disappearing in these forests never to be seen or heard from again.
Some of them say that have heard that these Forests harbor the pathway to the spirit world. Others say that a brutal and warmongering tribe live in these mountains and would sooner kill outsiders than speak to them. Yet I do not believe so.
Abraham has been telling one tale that intrigues us all, the tale of a Group of Frenchmen who went into these forests, never to be heard from for many months. This must be the same French Military expedition that disappeared a hundred years ago.
He says how it was his tribe who found the only survivor, of how the soldier raved like a lunatic, shouting and rambling about monsters with fangs as long as Bayonets, men with Antlers and skulls for head.
A land of Beauty and Savagery he seemed to call it. Yet I paid little attention after such because I am a scientist, and scientists do not follow stories or tales we follow evidence towards the facts.
February 11th 1888 Morning 10.00 O'clock
Our luck has still run dry, as things have gone from bad to worse. During the night something came into the camp, Something that seems to have scared the our native baggage carriers.
During the early hours of the morning,William, Mr Castle has looked at the tracks and believes it to be a bear that woke up from Hibernation early and was hoping to find something to eat. Though it seems that all of the natives we brought with us Excluding Abraham who has decided to remain have deserted us, with heavy snows surrounding us.
William and Abraham both agree that for the moment we should head for the mountains, try and find some caves upon which we can shelter out the worst of the weather with only what we require, so only food, water, medicines, clothing and weapons of course. after which we shall then try and return to the Natives village some weeks rugged walking away.
February 11th Evening
We have finally Managed to find a suitable cave, that we can shelter within.
Though what we first thought to be a shallow crevice like Cave has turned out to be a greater underground network of natural tunnels that were so high I could jump and barely touch to ceiling, but in some areas the space between the walls made it very difficult to move. It was within these tunnels that we have found some curious items and shocks.
First as we made our way into the tunnels Miranda found something it was an old pocket sized pistol from well over 30 years ago, its small size meant that it could only hold one bullet, but sadly for us it was rusted away beyond use, yet Miranda did manage to make out a date on its side, it said 1843.
Our first thought was that someone was here some time after 1843, but who?
Then as we made our way further and further in we found something that became more interesting, we found cave paintings along the walls and ceiling of the tunnel. their artwork astounded us all, the images were off people and great beasts ranging from animals that looked like deer and rhinos?, as well as what looked like some kind of bear. We were all amazed how the paintings seem to dance in the flicker of our fire torches and whale oil lamps.
But as we moved through the many different tunnels we found something ever more frightening, laying withing the stones, rocks and pebbles at one of the many dead ends, we found a skeleton.
Then Abraham found something a collection of papers, rotting away, He said he couldn't read it for it was in a language he did not know. To which he handed it to Miranda and the good Father.
The Father stated that it was in french and that it seemed to be a journal from the tone of the words, most of which he couldn't read due to the decay of the paper.
But he was able to find some words that were still readable.
"We have finally escaped, we have found the tunnel we fell through and are using it for shelter, We started this Journey with 50 men, now we are two. I have told the Lumere to go on without me for I am a lost cause.
Despite multiple refuses, he has finally left me, he must survive so that no others come this way, so that no others fall into Hell on Earth"
He continued on saying that the end was coming for him and that he would soon pass, his last clear sentence was "Ne pas entrer dans les tunnels" Do not go into the tunnels. After that he just kept repeating the same words "Vivre France, Vivre 10e bataillon réguliers coloniaux"
Long live France, Long live the Tenth battalion of the colonial Regulars, that was the same French Battalion that disappeared over a hundred years ago. This poor man was one of those who never returned, It is a shame that his name is not within the papers that are still readable.
But what is it that he was mentioning, why should no one enter the tunnels? what did he mean by Falling into Hell on Earth.
February 12th 1888
We now know why, we should not have entered the tunnels, for as we traveled further into the tunnels we fell into some kind of slide like path, that has taken somewhere truly unknown.
We now sit within a large cave, looking out upon a collection different valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see. From what I can tell our cave is at the bottom of a cliff that stands atop a hill.
looking out I can see nothing but trees, oak and pine, but just in the distance I can see what Appears to be a lake.
And We can use the water, since all we have with us are what we had when we fell into this place, which stands at a few blankets, six water containers, a couple cans of vegetables, cans of corned beef, and some smoked fish. Apart from that all we have is our weapons alongside the ammunition for them alongside some pots and pans.
William and Abraham are in favor of going down the hill to find the lake so we can resupply our water and possibly find a route out of the valleys.
February 12th 1888 Evening
Our trip down to the Lake we could see atop our hill, has been somewhat fulfilling. As we made our way down, we walked in single file constantly keeping our weapons readied revolver or rifle. Abraham, William, Miranda and I carried the rifles whilst Edward and the good father held close their revolvers. Abraham watched our backs, with the good father and Edward in front of him, me in the middle Miranda just in front and William taking the lead.
William was very cautious, more cautious than I have ever seen him, he almost seemed terrified taking the lead of our line. Miranda asked him what was the matter to which he answered "Hunters gut.... A feeling a hunter has, when the Predator has become the Prey, when Eyes are watching him".
And I must say I agree with that statement, ever since our accidental fall into these valleys I have felt the constant paranoia of being watched. I believe we all are, each of us keeping our fingers on the triggers of our firearms.
The forest was beautiful but clearly dangerous, although we were taking an easy route down, it made the forest more clearer, there were times that it went completely silent, no Birds, no insects nothing.
When finally we came out of the forest we finally came to see it, the white sand of the lakes beaches, the water of the lake looked beautiful its water was crystal clear, with birds flying above and insects of all kinds buzzing around. William broke our trance on the lake, by insisting we fill as many of our water containers as quickly as possible before something comes along.
As we did so a sound came from the forest, to our left we all looked in the direction and saw something I could not imagine. It was a deer, but one larger than any I have ever seen, we have seen moose, but this was truly larger than even the greatest among them.
Our amazement suddenly ended when William fired his rifle, the great beast screeched out and fell into the sands which now held its own blood splatter.
We were all shocked, He didn't even pause he just shot it, without a second thought.
He just slung the rifle over his shoulder and walked over to the body, pulling a knife from its sheath, knelt down and began cutting into the carcass. He just simply scoffed saying "We need the meat", Abraham agreed, after all we were limited on what food we had in the tin cans.
Yet Edward, Miranda and I became amazed at the deer's size and its immense antlers, Miranda layed down by its front leg, he feet by its hooves, her head only just came to its shoulder. Edward became amazed at the antlers, due to the sheer size, the deer landed its head was like that of a Dog lying on its front, the antlers spread out left and right. He physically layed down in one and he had fitted within it perfectly. How could this creature hold up its head?
Our examination ended, when Abraham insisted we return to the relative safety of the cave atop the hill. And truthfully he was right, if this is the type of deer here, I don't want to know what predators are out there.
We packed what meat we could into our packs next to the filled water containers, and began the long hike up the hill. Yet again there was little excitement when Suddenly as we came closer and closer, Abraham suddenly froze in place.
Miranda Asked him what was wrong, he just pointed to the ground, we all gathered around and saw, a footprint, a human shaped footprint in the dirt and leaves, it was plain to sea, a human shaped foot, and it wasn't there when we left. We approached the cave more cautiously and found that some of our belongings had been moved slightly, packs on theirs sides when we had left them standing.
Certain things had been taken out like our canned foods, knives, clothes even Edwards books. yet nothing was taken.
There is someone out there and they know we are here.
February 14th Morning
Our fear has grown about what is out there.... we have nothing to help us, all we have done for the past two days is simply sit around.
Last night an extreme cold came in, and it truly is a terrible chill. All we've been able to do is huddle with our blankets and our small fire, The Father has come up with an idea that might keep us busy and perhaps even warm, we would construct ourselves some raised beds.
Using some branches and rope we would make something that would allow each of us to get off the cold floor when we sleep.
February 14th Evening
Our beds are made up, simple with just sticks and branches holding them up with rope and reeds for us to lay on. We've just finished the last of the meet from the deer, and are now preparing ourselves for hopefully a good nights sleep, but not all of us apparently Abraham and William have not left their "Post" at the mouth of the cave, their eyes and weapons glued to watching the surrounding forest.
It might be the scare and thought of people being somewhere out there and knowing that we are here has placed them at a state of readiness. Making themselves prepared for any danger that might come for us. All I can do is hope that such danger does not come for us, beyond that my thoughts are of how we might survive here long term if we are forced too.
February 15th Morning
Our beds are very very comfortable, they might be awkward to sleep on at first but once I found my balance on it, I found a state of comfort that I thought lost when we found ourselves in this predicament.
Despite the comfort of the beds though I still feel uneasy, Abraham collected some plants he knew and created a type of native herbal tea. Yet as we sit here around our fire watching the water and herbs boil in one of our metal pots hanging above the flames thanks to a simple collection of sticks and stones to hold items up and cook on.
All I can feel is the constant fear of something out there, someone in that almost seemingly endless forest is a pair of eyes watching us. We all feel it, the strange shiver we feel when looking out as the sun continues to rise up across the valleys.
William is the most disturbed by the feeling he hasn't stopped his work, he has been building a wall of large branches and rocks to form a small wall barely hip high. using some as poles to hold those he places horizontally firmly in place. Yet he said himself its "Little more than a sturdy fence".
Miss Crane...Miranda has been discussing the idea of, going out later today with Abraham to try and collect some plant materials, perhaps some apples, potatoes etc for us to eat. Personally I agree we need to think about living here long term, we can not rely on our limited canned foods forever, we should only use them as a last resort. But like I said I am still uncomfortable of what is out there...
We know of Deer larger than horses.... We know there is someone out there watching..... People have always told me to fear the darkness... but truthfully I believe that we should fear what we do not know
I what I fear is out there.
February 20th 1888 Morning
Our water supplies are running low, Abraham and William are insistent that we take the risk and try and head down to the lake to refill some containers and canteens so that we can keep ourselves in good health.
But I am unsure Miranda volunteered to go and so did William, and strangely enough even though I am scared of what is out there I ended up saying "I'll go too".
Why did I do that?
February 20th 1888 Evening
We are even more afraid now, for during our trip to the lake we experienced two different shocking discoveries.
The first was as we were making our way down the hill, William lead the way with Miranda in the middle and me watching the rear. We decided to attempt an alternate route so that we could try and avoid any dangers out there that might be watching our previous route.
As we did so though we came across something terrifying, we found a great oak tree with a pair of plant covered skeletons. One male and one female.
We inspected them and found that the bones had been gnawed on, some of the bones were covered in marks from teeth. On the skulls we found something very different, they each had small circular holes in the sides of the heads, they shot themselves.
William found the answer, an old hunting rifle with an engraving of initials, R.B could it have been Robert Blake the British Earl who disappeared with his wife and young son. He then found amongst the leaves an old pistol rusted beyond use. William just simply stated that "They must have Saved the last shots for themselves".
But there was just one problem, two skeletons, where was the son, my only thought is that he too is dead and his remains scattered.
And that wasn't even the worst part, as we continued down to the lake, through the trees we could see something amazing. as we got to the edge of the forest, remaining hidden within the bushes and branches, we could see a herd of Mammoth moving along the beach around the lake just in front of us.
As they continued, William noticed something, they were in a hurry and keeping their infants in the middle of the herd. I looked to my left and saw the answer further along the beach was something big, it looked like a bear but I could not be sure at first. William grabbed Miranda and myself and pulled us back and down into the brush. As the creature began to move around the lake in our direction.
As it got closer we could make out more details, it was a dark brown in colour, with stocky front legs. Its body reminded me of a bear very strong muscular limbs. Its head was short like a big cats but in its mouth was something terrifying its upper canines were immense. as long as a butchers knife. It paused just in front of our hiding spot, and began to sniff the air, it was then it looked directly at us, almost directly eye to eye with me.
I fear that if the Mammoths which were now moving up into the forest well along the lakeside hadn't bellowed. Then he would have after us rather than continue to follow them. As soon as he entered the forest, Miranda and I ran as fast as we could filled as many containers as we could and ran back into the forest. We had never moved so fast, we darted back into cover and then beyond, Once we were together again we quickly began to quick march back to our camp, this time taking a route we knew was reasonably safe.
We returned safely and explained what we saw, it was terrifying. I had imagined large predators to be here, after seeing that large deer William killed on our first day, but still to see something like that makes me imagine.
There is something that I didn't tell the others though, for as we were pushing ourselves to fill up on water, after seeing the monster predator, I could see something in the distance, in on of the other valleys. I could see a single column of smoke rising up.
25th July 1888
I must apologize to any who read this journal, for the extreme and severe gap of information of our time in these valleys for the last few months. But all of our activities have been standard, collecting water from the lake or from the rain pots we've set, gathering apples and other plants to try and prevent us from using our tinned foods.
Other than such activities, our time has been focused on scheduled rest and "Guard duty" on the makeshift wall at the mouth of our little cave. Nothing of true note has occurred, at least not until earlier this morning.
During the early hours of the morning Miranda noticed something coming from the forest, it was a sound, she awoke the rest of us excluding Abraham who was also on guard duty.
And she was right there was something echoing through the trees, it sounded like some kind of a horn, the horn seemed to lower and then rise again in its volume. Almost like a native tribal horn, Abraham explained that it sounded more like either a War horn or one for a great Hunt.
27th July 1888
Winter is fast approaching, even in July snow has shown itself in the wind. even small amounts show that we are now in autumn, and winter is close. William is highly doubting that we haven't the supplies to last a long winter, he says that if snow is falling now then it will be a long cold winter.
Miranda agreed saying that if it will be like that then it shall be even harder to find food in the form of plants and other vegetation. Abraham says that we might be able to last by hunting, but I disagree, we only have so much in the way of ammunition and we can't use it continuously in hunting for food when we need it more for defending ourselves from what is out there.
28th July 1888 Morning
There is the distinct smell of death in the air, it
Abraham is insistent that we ascertain what it is causing the smell, so that we might be able to possibly remove it from our immediate area. William has agreed, however Edward and I are against the notion, believing that the smell could be anything, the good father is only against the idea because he is fearful of his dear adoptive daughter going into the dangerous forest.
Yet it seems not to matter, they have decided that Miranda and Abraham head out anyway.
28th July 1888 Evening
We were right not to pry into the foul odor that has surrounded us. For it seemed that the smell was coming from the decomposing carcass of a large deer. The same kind apparently that we encountered during our first day here, it is clear that the immense predator we saw weeks ago is back in the area, and apparently it is hunting.
It seems that it is not the only one, for the very moment that the sun dropped beyond the horizon the wind and rock has been filled with the countless howls of wolves. Some are far away in the distance, so far that their howls are near nothing more than echos.
Yet some are far closer, too close for my opinion, even with the torches we have set at our little wall at the caves mouth and the main fire we have in the cave itself near our beds and survival equipment. All I can feel is that they are out there, wolf packs numbering god knows, and the only stopping them is a simple hip high wall of rocks and branches, and behind them a few scared and tired survivors with a limited amount of weaponry.
29th July 1888
I was right last night, none of our party has achieved even a small measure of sleep, throughout the night the howls of wolves in the distance has echoed through the caves. The growls, crackles and grunts of them fighting over what remained of the decaying deer in the forest, but the very instance the sun began to rise everything has gone silent, the wolves seemed to have vanished.
Not only this, but it seems to be that everything has just vanished, no insects are flying in the air, no birds in the trees. Nothing.
Even the air seems to have slowed, the smell of rotten flesh and death, has gone, the usual smell of pine is gone. The feel of my own hands is like that of a builders, rough and sweaty. And there is ever constant feeling that a pair of eyes is watching us. But what Kind of eyes, curious or dangerous.
30th July 1888 Morning
We have finally gotten some sleep, a small measure, but some at least. We are already thinking of our position and our safety. This morning, a present was left for us at the wall.
It was two pack like objects, fashioned from the pelts of animals with a type of intertwined stems acting as rope tied to either end, so it could be carried on shoulder. One of them was filled with apples and potatoes, the other with fish, fresh as well, we knew that for sure because the scales were still wet from being caught. Next to the packs though was something else, a long branch, with a small carved notch at one end, with it and hooked around it was the same rope like material but much thinner, no thinner that fishing line.
As we collected the gift, William started to get the fire going again so we could smoke the fish to make them last longer. Whilst Miranda, Edward and I looked over the Packs and lone rod like stick. We were amazed, the stitching was simple but methodical, this took time and effort to make and fashion. Not something that someone living under the instinct of survival, look at us our camp was simple, the only thing we have much that is worth much effort was the wall at the cave mouth.
Abraham was interested as well, for he knew the customs of nearly all the local tribes, yet even he was astounded, saying that "None make things such as this anymore", he even continued saying "Nothing in this simple manner". And he was right most natives now work for a living, buy things not fashion them.
Whomever is out there is not a normal person, whomever they are, they are someone who obviously wants to help us, and from the amount of food they have given, is able to find and get enough food to spare some.
31st July 1888
The fish was something else, what we haven't eaten we have smoked as best we could. Abraham has fashioned a kind of stand to hold them up, so hopefully they won't decay or rot away beyond use.
But our thoughts are still on whom is out there, we have all now as of yesterday seen something, William, Abraham, Edward and the good father have seen wolves running through the forest earlier as they made a run to the lake to collect water.
But Miranda and I have seen something else, whilst waiting for them to return from the water run, we glimpsed something or someone running through the trees around our cave, whatever or whomever is watching us is still nearby, and whatever it is they intend. We need to be ready.
It is not just the fear of someone watching us, it is the fact that they are able to move through these trees and bushes without making a single sound, all we only know them to be out there because we catch glimpses of them in the gaps in between each tree.
I can only hope that they reveal themselves, and that they are friends.
5th August 1888
The first snows have begun to fall, all across these valleys. The sun has been completly covered by the clouds it is like when the sun has yet to rise or set, there is light to see, but slightly darkened from the depth of the clouds.
There is a strange beauty to it, the silence of the forest, no birds or insects, not even the wolves with their howls. It is like a moment of peace, calm. A stillness, where you begin to understand that there is a spirit to this land.
Even with all the dangers that surround us, I feel that in this moment, I feel no sense of danger or mortality, like I could just watch the snow fall for all eternity. Who knew that by simply watching the snow fall could make us all feel safe with a small measure of comfort.
5th August 1888 Evening
we all have just sat here around our fire pit, feeling the warmth of the flames and hearing the flicker and crackle of the flames. Yet all of us are watching only the snow fall outside the cave, almost glowing in the light of the torches we have lining our defensive wall, we
We have lost our moment of peace. For a second ago, our attention turned to a set of glowing golden eyes, watching us from across the wall in the forest. From the moment we saw them, we watched them watching us until in a flash they vanished, into the darkness, as if they were never even there.
6th August 1888 Morning
the warmth and comfort has lost us all completely, none of our small group of survivors are feeling anything resembling safety. The world around us continues to become colder and colder as the winter comes close and closer, it is now clearer that we need to prepare ourselves for what is coming.
Miranda is suggesting that we move further into the cave to gain a little more protection from the colder air and the worst of the winter snows. Abraham is in agreement, believing that even moving behind the curve at the back of the cave would give us better protection.
So later today with one our lamps we are going to have a look at the conditions in there.
6th august 1888 evening
We may have lost our feeling of comfort and security, but we have gained amazement and wonder. For the moment we turned around the corner within the cave, Lamp in hand We found something beautiful. Covering the walls and ceiling were beautiful paintings, simple but beautiful, the paintings almost seemed to dance in the light of our lamp and fire torches, the paintings ranged from the simplest stick figures of men with spears, bows and arrows. All the way to animals in the finest details.
The sheer beauty was astounding, we just looked over them each single animal and figure painted upon the walls. I was amazed at them, more than the others in our group, the paintings were old, very old, older than any I have ever seen.
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