

### Vampire Graveyard

By Rod Seeber

Smashwords Edition

******

Published By

Rod Seeber on Smashwords

Copyright 2011 by Rod Seeber

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### Table of Contents

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Ancient Tales

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Exploration

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Trapped

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The Cavern

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Escape

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ANCIENT TALES

'You're such a nerd!'

'Why is that?'

'Well you want all the accolades of a famous horror story writer but you just don't dare to live it'

'I still don't get what you mean?'

'Ok what's the name of your new horror story?'

'It called ...... I Dare You'

'See that's exactly what I mean!'

'Huh'

'You want people to dare to read your story but you won't go and experience what you write about'

'Oh right like I can just go out and interview a Vampire, where should I arrange this interview? At 7/11 after midnight ... perhaps?'

'Ha ha very funny, you know Shawnee has old Indian folk law knowledge of all this stuff, why not ask her about the old graves up top of the hill. This is your chance to write about something that's actually true'

'True ....aw come on, how can Vampires be connected to the Indians?'

'Its true why do you think they had a medicine man in each village, trust me it wasn't about head dress fashions!

'Surely you don't want me to believe the Medicine Man was there to ward off nasty old Vampires!'

That's exactly what I am talking about and to prove it why don't you me and Shawnee go up to the old graveyard and do some research after dark ... or are you too scared?'

'Ok I'll take the Pepsi challenge and show you both it's just fiction born from ancient myths before the all the old timers discovered the world was actually round!'

'Fine how about next Friday night then ...... I dare you!'

'Fine just to prove I'm not scared ....... at midnight!'

And with that the budding young horror story writer named Tom Smyth foolishly committed himself to an evening of unexpected terror on a journey of discovery into what really does exist when the sun goes down. "Uneducated old fairy tales?" I think not. Upon hearing news of the intriguing challenge Shawnee cautiously jumped at the chance to display her unique knowledge of ancient tribal legends and long lost frontier fables. Although keen to be involved, she was noticeably hesitant to speak openly of the revered role of the wise Medicine Man. A wise Shawnee knew all too well that to dabble with the evil of the old ways was surely asking for trouble! She would undoubtedly have to watch her words once standing upon scared ancient ground. Having finally convinced Tom to go searching for the undead a mischievous Jacob was most pleased with himself. A real adventure in his hometown and a real chance to either confirm or dispel some of the town myths he had always suspected the older locals secretly spoke of. Surely that derelict old graveyard high up on the hill had no more secrets to tell? Although if so Shawnee would be a great asset in the interpretations. Attempting to demonstrate his genuine commitment to the upcoming adventure an enthusiastic Tom decided to do some serious research at the library where old chronicles of the town's only newspaper were stored. Soon enough he was armed with a pile of dusty old newspapers. Unsure, Tom had no idea of what to search for? Perhaps his developing writer's instinct would lead him to anything of interest?

He would only try to specifically investigate articles consisting of unusual circumstances and occurrences. Such as unexplained disappearances plus any strange unexplained happenings in and around the old towns designated boundaries. Whilst sifting amongst the various piles of so many examples of the local paper Tom was all too soon overwhelmed by all the local history at his fingertips. Thank heavens each edition of the Graveyard Hill Times had tabs of interest footnoted! Or he would have been there for the next month searching through all the annals of this interesting early frontier town's history. Of course the added ingredient of a local Indian population created an extra element to all the chapters of a turbulent western pioneer town's history. This sure was going to be fun outing an increasingly inspired Tom repeatedly kept telling himself. Soon a whole new world of old secrets opened up to the young writer as he enthusiastically delved deeper and deeper into the myriad of eye witness accounts and articles relating to long forgotten and unexplained disappearances from the district. Some of the standout articles dated back to well over a century ago as he uncovered a long tradition of trial by rumor, innuendo and politically popular decisions by the predictably corruptible mayors of the day. Basically if the easily swayed majority of the town believed all publically voiced accusations whether true or false? The accused would receive violent and swift justice via an eager hangman's noose! Unfortunately many lost souls would become destined to experience a premature fate by this method.

Patient hours later the intrepid writer Tom finally found the needle in the haystack he was so keenly seeking! There it was, a Front Page news story about six possessed local Indians who were publically hanged for attempted murder of the graveyards caretaker. The article on display was dated 18th August 1883 and accompanied by a grainy photo of the six hung men brandishing the headline title of Vampire Killers Justice. Further investigation revealed a series of incidents and missing local entities including the sheriff and fire chief that had reportedly joined together, attempting to dispel any myths associated with the nearby grounds of the graveyard. Reading through the dust-covered article Tom was soon to discover there was substantial and much debated conjecture in regards to the actual circumstances of these deaths. Many locals of the times claimed to have witnessed strange and disturbing visions overhead. These visions apparently resembled giant bat like creatures. Conflicting reports stated they were migrating eagles although it was impossible to determine the exact identity of the breed? Expert frontier hunters of the day were claimed to have dismissed the eagle theory after a night of independent sightings to the contrary. Upon reaching the end of the intriguing article Tom discovered the bodies of the six accused Indians were all missing the following morning of their hanging. Mysteriously the local Medicine Man's headless body was now hanging upside down with no blood underneath where the missing head wound would have expectedly leaked all the body's fluids onto the ground below!

The unexpected unveiling of this valuable snippet of information would inspire a dedicated study of all available records on print by not only the investigative Tom but also by his intended comrades to the graveyard on the hill, Shawnee and Jacob. Together they amassed an eclectic assortment of strange local historical accounts leading up to as recently as only two years ago! This hidden history buried amongst decades of records would reveal a total of 157 missing people never to be heard of again over the last century. Plus another estimated thirty or so before the local paper became a regular periodical. Also a grand total of 63 sightings of mysterious creatures flying in the night had been officially reported. Jacob was quick to comment that the real number was probably double that when you consider just how many people would have felt unsure about whether to report unexplained sightings of creatures in the night sky. Possibly the most interesting statistic as far Shawnee was concerned was the disappearance of over 30 medicine men from all the various tribes in and around the immediate area of the pioneer town known as Graveyard Hill. Apparently this plethora of paranormal happenings occurring over the last century was purposely suppressed by the elder folk of the town, including the local Indian elders of Shawnee's ancestors. Was this a joint conspiracy to hide the disturbing truth behind so much wickedness?

The planned excursion was set back to Saturday night so more sordid details of the town's secret past could be thoroughly assessed before any unprepared gallivanting around dark scary graveyards at midnight! Collectively the trio felt the adrenaline surge of the hunt rapidly now flow through their veins. It was quite exciting to think that right under their very feet the seemingly real possibility of dark forces at play existed. Malevolent forces somehow able to manifest them-selves into the world after the sun had set over the horizon. For reasons unknown the ongoing legacy of the brave Medicine Man's vigil against the damned had been steadfastly kept a secret for many past decades. Intrigued by what they had unearthed Shawnee just had to find out a little more, so she decided in it was time to call in on her knowledgeable old grandma living at the reservation. Grandma Shee was about as ancient world as they come with her numerous tribal bead necklaces accompanied by distinctly bright bird feather earrings designed to enhance her splendid ceremonial suede leather dress. Indeed every trailing wrinkle upon her old withered face seemed to desperately want to jump out and share tales from the olden days and of how although defeated on the plains. The Indians remained strong willed individuals who steadfastly cherished the proud history of their people! Approaching the reservation a smiling Shawnee could still remember Grandma Shee instructing her on how to ride bareback some ten or so years ago now. Including when Shawnee had been slow to get the gist of it all how her grandma even at the age of near seventy bravely got up on the painted pony to demonstrate the inbred skill of the Indian riders.

Shawnee held an adoring great respect for grandma Shee and the remaining tribal folk still out here on the land of their heritage. However her mother's decision live in the town had split the family somewhat with most of the regular contact disappearing over recent years. The aftermath of the family's split reinforced in Shawnee's mind just how important it was to maintain regular contact with all her family roots. As again here she was seeking the wisdom of the ages that only her elder blood could possibly reveal. After partaking in some traditional tea and blanket weaving Shawnee finally disclosed the main purpose of her visit and her newfound awareness of the Medicine Men's secretive work over the last hundred years or so. Grandma Shee attentively listened on while Shawnee spoke of the collaborated evidence that she, Tom and Jacob had amassed after the initial investigations of the old frontier town's history. Intuition told her that Grandma Shee's silent denial of the evidence presented only confirmed an elusive determination by all to bury all old stories or facts related to this matter. To the point it was only when Shawnee indicated to Grandma Shee the trio of friends had planned a midnight expedition to the graveyard on the hill that any semblance of knowledge came to the fore. Elevated concern in her gravelly old voice was instantly obvious as she pleaded with Shawnee not to go there after dark.

Grandma Shee's heightened level of worry only confirmed to a sneaky Shawnee that she was surely on the right track to obtaining some invaluable local knowledge of the frontier's past. Abruptly, her grandma now frantically waved about her hands while begging the still curious Shawnee to cancel any excursions to such tainted ground. Finally the unrepentant Shawnee was conveniently presented with an inviting opportunity to openly ask a flustered Grandma Shee 'Why?' A troubled look purposely accompanied by a distinctively awkward silence was the immediate response on offer. However after a noticeably stubborn Shawnee continued an inquisitive look of raised eyebrows for a long slow minute. Grandma Shee knew there could be no dancing around the dark subject matter at hand. Begrudgingly she now prepared herself to unwillingly reveal the ancient tale of woe to an unsuspecting youth unable to possibly fathom the underlying darkness of a world from which these horrid tales are born! The simple truth was that Shawnee's generation had unknowingly been born into more fortunate times where the presence of such a persistent evil was blessed with the stealth ability to easily blend within a faster paced modern existence. A world where the busy people of the day perhaps foolishly did not take the time to truly try and understand any and all of the reasons behind any strange occurrences around them each and every day.

'Shawnee to play with the cursed souls of the dead can only end in certain tragedy I must warn you! However if you really must know I will share the dark legend of our land and our people's heritage. Many many thousands of moons ago two braves were out on a nighttime hunt, seeking the buffalo skin for warmth. It is said while in the darkness as they quietly crept upon the resting herd that once they had arrived to claim their prize a strange bat like creature was secretly observed. This most unusual creature was easily the size of a fully grown man, if not more! This peculiar beast was seen feasting upon the blood of one of the buffalos when soon after another of the creatures landed down from the sky to join it. Unsettled by this eerie sight the braves showed great courage and continued to watch on unnoticed as they witnessed the life being drawn out from the buffalo's veins in its neck. It was said the hideous in appearance bat like creatures regularly squabbled over the spurts of blood erupting from the neck of the dying buffalo. Such was their thirst and desire for blood! Sensing only evil spirits were afoot one of the warriors drew upon his trusted bow and arrow to bring down these morbid creatures. But luck was not to be with him as suddenly the string of his bow snapped, alerting the eagerly feasting blood drinkers to the two warriors nearby presence! Enraged at having been sighted the cursed blood drinkers instantly took to the night sky in flight towards the two exposed Indians, Hunting Moon and Two Rivers. In a state of panic Hunting Moon would set about to flee, while Two Rivers would stoically remain firm as he drew upon his bow to decisively bring down the evil beings approaching him'

'With the release of a truly aimed arrow the first of the attacking creatures was quick to fall, clutching at its punctured chest as suddenly next came a violent explosion of bright flames erupting out from the wound. Within seconds the evil creature's defeated body turned to stone as then a gusty wind appeared and began to wither it away to just a pile of dirt grains. The arrow had been skillfully aimed true and death now welcomed the previously unseen flying beast of the night. The fleeing warrior Hunting Moon had witnessed all but decided to continue the quest for escape as now the other mysterious creature of flight landed at the remaining brave warrior's feet. A vicious fight ensued and many wounds were shared by both of the combatants. Then just as the escaping warrior Hunting Moon gratefully reached the crest of a nearby hill to confirm his escape. He turned to witness the evil creature of the night viciously latched on to the brave Two Rivers neck as he next fell to the ground defeated. Once more Hunting Moon initiated his escape and ran aimlessly for many miles as the remaining creature of flight began stalking him from the darkness above! Then with all seemingly lost the exhausted brave fell to the ground in begrudging acceptance of an unprecedented darkened fate. The evil creature of the night soon joined him on the ground then menacingly approached the fallen brave. All was surely lost as Hunting Moon silently said final farewells to his family and faithful pony. Certain death was only moments away for the regretful warrior now wishing he had stayed strong alongside the heroic stance of the brave warrior named Two Rivers to ward off these evil creatures!'

'Closer and closer the hideous predator honed in on the heavily breathing fallen warrior who in one last fight for his life began to viciously wield his dagger in the direction of the attacking beast! Suddenly the evil threat lunged forwards to overpower this brave's courageous last stance only to strangely then shriek in terror and hastily retreat up to the night sky. Confused by this fortunate turn of events Hunting Moon gratefully witnessed the morning's sun rise up over the horizon only moments later! It was only then that he understood the power of the rising day's sunlight held over the beast. For it was only now obvious this darkened evil could only survive within the shadows of the night. Rested and recuperated from the harrowing ordeal the concerned warrior ran many steps to seek out the disturbing fate of Two Rivers? Finally an exhausted Hunting Moon arrived back to where the strange bat like creatures were first observed on the plains. However upon finally reaching the place of the fallen warrior's demise his lifeless body was missing? Perhaps more disturbingly so, there was no evidence of any further movement after death. Hunting Moon was an expert tracker but after thoroughly surveying all ground nearby he could not identify any movements from either the evil or the fallen brave. It was a perplexing mystery he would quickly share with all the people of his village upon his return. Some of the suspicious village folk felt his words to be tainted and a treacherous lie while some felt his words to be that of the solemn truth. It was only when he reluctantly explained that there was no honor destined for him to speak openly of this tale of fleeing that most eventually believed his words. After all what honor bound brave warrior would openly share such a cowardly tale of retreat?'

'A number of days past by and the incident was soon put to side until a small hunting party from the tribe stumbled across a ramshackle band of fellow plains Indians fleeing from their fertile grounds. The unsettling aspect of their actions was that even though now noticed by a well armed hunting party they chose to continued on forwards rather than turn and run for their lives? Confused at such blatant foolishness the braves on horseback decided to do nothing as many women and children ran directly towards them, then past them. Even an occasional warrior was curiously observed amongst this fleeing mass of plains folk? Nothing made sense until the leading warrior of the hunting party, Bear Paw jumped off his horse to apprehend one of the running young braves to seek out an explanation. The captured brave readily offered him-self to the huntsmen's knife rather than cease his escape 'Kill me or stand aside' he declared! Soon all of the hunting party would dismount in astonished disbelief at what they were witness to? Had everyone gone mad? Again the shaking young warrior pleaded for release while screaming 'Evil lives in the night, it comes form above!' Alerted to these unsettling words the warrior called Hunting Moon questioned the young brave as to why he would declare such a statement? The terrified young tribesman spoke of how once the sun departed the land on the previous day a mysterious Indian of the night stalked their village until finally taking a number of innocent victims!'

'Concerned at this development the hunting party questioned why this young man chose to call the attacker a warrior of the night? It was now disclosed that somehow this unusual warrior possessed the ability to fly and that for reasons unknown he desired only to kill his chosen prey by the draining of their blood from the neck. A pale shaking young brave then spoke of how for a number of nights the village was relentlessly targeted by the mysterious flying night warrior. He then stated that even though the many skilled braves of the tribe attempted retaliation, it was ultimately to be to no avail. Time and time again the manifested evil that was the night entity all too easily repelled any attempts aimed at its demise. Soon another of the hunting party's brave's spoke up 'But only one brave against an entire village?' Noticeably trembling, the young man revealed that after the first few nights some of the fallen rose up again! But this time as evil spirits, also seeking to take our lives by draining all of our blood from the neck. Our fallen chief had laid title onto them as 'Vampires' before he too fell victim to this ever-increasing threat to our very existence. Again the ultimatum was offered by the young brave intent on escape or ending his ordeal 'Take my life or let me flee, I beg you please' Soon he was released as stunned, the hunting party watched on in further disbelief at the unprecedented sight of so many terrified villagers all purposely running to possible starvation or the deadly will of mountain lions or wolves. Apparently to remain here, exposed on these lands was deemed a far more dangerous choice. Surely somehow then this strange story must then be true?'

'In the knowledge that these night creatures now titled as Vampires (which in local dialect was a combination of two words meaning Evil and The Plains) would surely find their way to their own village. The hunting party decided it wise to swiftly return to their home grounds and prepare for a horrifying onslaught of evil born from the night sky. They graciously thanked the fleeing young tribesman for his wise words of caution by offering some meat from the hunt for his soon to be starving family. The young brave respectfully bowed then once again fled to rejoin the other retreating members of the migrating tribe. Upon the hurried return of the hunting party, word quickly spread of all the disturbing sights just witnessed. Only one other warrior held any greater knowledge of such tainted creatures, Hunting Moon. He was quickly summoned by a concerned tribal chief intent on prying out any information known of these creatures set to invade the once peaceful grass plains night sky. The story of the first sighting was once more reluctantly retold with every possible detail Hunting Moon could faithfully recall carefully noted by what was by now a War Council of sorts. Having previously won many hard fought battles on the open plains this proud village of Indian warrior's were not yet ready to submit to the predicted horrors to come! They would hold strength in unity and hold their ground, they all swore to their chief"

Shawnee's frail Grandma suddenly stopped sharing her tale as now she observed her granddaughters busy hand, writing down as much as it possibly could. 'No no! You cannot speak of this tale to anyone outside the land of the reservation or you will be inviting the return of evil spirits! A disbelieving Shawnee questioned why it was ok to speak of these old happenings here but yet not beyond any of the defined tribal boundaries? A grim stare from a staunch Grandma Shee confidently indicated an acquired wisdom associated with her next sentence 'Because there are no Medicine Men out there' Slightly surprised by these words a curious Shawnee enquired if there was really a Medicine Man on the reservation at which a laughing Grandma Shee replied 'Oh yes my dear why do you think I wanted so much for your mother to stay on here on blessed sacred ground. While even here on this land nothing can be positively guaranteed, it is believed we remain free of the curse of our ancestors' Convinced by the sincerity in her grandma's voice Shawnee agreed to stop writing down notes of the sacred tale. 'Please Grandma Shee go on, please go on!' As now she dropped the pencil to indicate the ancient tale must be finished without any further interruption. In acknowledgement of Shawnee's respectful actions Grandma Shee closed her eyes while taking in a deep breath. She then chanted ancient words in the form a ritual song for the following next two minutes. Once satisfied all was in order to continue, again Grandma Shee again recalled the ancient myth out loud.

'As the warm prairie air disappeared into the night an unusually cold wind blew up. Flickering the warning torches at random which only added to the paranoia of the anxiously waiting braves who by now had settled into their chosen stance for impending battle. Each of these courageous warriors knew the fate of perhaps not only the village, but also the entire Indian Plains race laid solely at their chosen hands. All would be lost if they could not steadfastly halt the threatening spread of evil beyond the tribal boundaries. One critical advantage bestowed upon them was the precise knowledge of what to expect and to accept that such an attack would arrive from within the dessert's darkness. This was if the words of Hunting Moon and the fleeing tribe were to be believed. Although after having witnessed the unmistakable fear on the faces of all who fled from the perceived safety of the village. All agreed, it was only a question of when and not of if or why? As the ensuing confrontation approached each warrior faithfully then checked their weapons readiness to draw the enemies blood, rather than have theirs taken from them! Outside the main communal hut more braves were strategically positioned. All ready to give their lives rather than lose the women and children of the village's ancient bloodlines. Their collective resolve was personified by the out front leading war chief Bear Paw, ready to face all demons front on! Stoically by his side the tribes loyal men stood firm, it was now only a matter of time for their fate to be unveiled'

'Relentlessly a howling wind continued to increase in velocity. Suddenly without warning and within seconds of each other all of the outer boundary torches were somehow extinguished as a feeling of unimaginable exposure overwhelmed all that stood firm. Then with a howl of spine chilling cry of evil the attack came, reaching out from the darkened night! Next came an airborne Vampire in the form of a previously fallen brave. There could be no doubting it was the fallen Two Rivers. However by now he had transgressed over to the dark side as loudly he screamed out the war cry of his fellow undead! His noticeably pure white pale face only exemplified the terrifying bloodshot eyeballs displaying two black as night pupils. His teeth remained no more as now he menacingly displayed a ferocious set of red elongated fangs similar to that of the hungered plains wolf! Horrified by this morbid sight the closest warrior announced the arrival of the Vampire intruders! All too soon a swarm of fifteen or more other damned braves came into view. All steadily following Two Rivers airborne charge towards steadfastly waiting braves below who were now aiming spears, arrows and tomahawks upwards. Although all natural self survival instincts were begging them to flee just as the previous villagers had. The battle ready Bear Paw defiantly called upon all warriors to remain strong willed and to staunchly defend their tribal land. The ground they hunted on for over a thousand years. He loudly declared to all, this was their heritage and that no creature of the night will ever take it from them while the tribe's men stood proud and ready to defend their heritage at all costs!'

'Swooping down swiftly an all too eager to start the feast Vampire brave specifically targeted one of the more solitary outer defenders. Unnerved the lone village brave repeatedly swung his head from side to side in panicked demonstration of the whole life-threatening ordeal. There was no doubting the Vampire spirit of the night had skillfully sensed an eruption of fear from within his chosen prey as next it maneuvered in for a perceived easy kill. However the bloodthirsty creature's insatiable appetite for his first victim would see it unknowingly condemned to death! As nearby a spirited young brave ran to the assistance of his tribal brother while launching his spear directly into the closing in night warrior's chest! This heroic action of kinship ignited a powerful burst of explosive flames from within the punctured chest cavity of the fallen night creature suffering a fatal wound. A relieved and grateful lone warrior quickly turned to his savior, only to then see another equally determined creature of the night unleash swift revenge! The new vengeful Vampire ferociously latched onto his victim's neck then savagely ripped away at the main artery of the helpless brave rapidly succumb to shock and trauma then fall dead to his knees. Upon the conclusion of the triumphant Vampire's feeding it forcefully twisted the lifeless hero warrior's head to break the neck and unconditionally confirm the kill'

'Horrified well beyond by his traditional beliefs at what was just witnessed the lone warrior hastily retreated back to the more populated defense lines adjoining the many sprawled out tee pees where the obvious strength lay in numbers. Unstoppable, his trembling hands demonstrated to all who had yet to encounter these Vampire creatures just how terrifying confrontation with them would be! All who stood by him felt an unspoken wave of terror overcome them in an instant! They were now begrudgingly forced to accept this was a truly an epic fight to the death, possibly even beyond? The Tribe's chief ordered the village's Medicine Man to remain close to the communal hut and to help any injured warriors able to make it back there. It was secretly hoped his powerful magic could revitalize them enough to rejoin the dire fight at hand. Undisputed the wisdom of the Medicine Man was revered by all and he was second only to the tribes chief. Meaning if the chief did not survive this horrific night, he would be required to lead the tribe in the short term until a new tribal leader could be agreed upon. There could be no denying this was a precarious moment in history for all members of this proud tribe of the Great Plains. Inside the tee pees gathered women and children who had not made it to the communal hut prayed to the Great Spirit for the safety of the tribe's brave warriors on this night'

'Sharpened tomahawks were joined by deadly hunting knives swinging wildly throughout at the chilled night air in this final defense of the village. There would be no time allowed to check on a fellow brother for if you took your mind away from the harrowing fight at hand, you may never live to look at anything else again! Echoing screams of wounded agony soon engulfed the formed battle lines of steadfast warriors who valiantly fought against not only their natural survival instincts to flee but also from an undeniable evil. All of which was accompanied by the relentless torment of knowing perhaps a brutal agonizing death was only possibly mere seconds away? If your destiny meant you were chosen next by one of the bloodthirsty night warriors from above! These proud strong men who had never experienced such tormented fear before suddenly found themselves understanding and possibly submitting to an infection able to rot your very soul if not careful. Luckily for the village the inner fortitude of such warriors remained stoic as time and time again they engaged in defensive maneuvers designed to avert the onslaught of the attacking Vampire's. Leading the charge alongside Bear Paw, Hunting Moon desperately fought his way to the front lines. Attempting to restore village faith in him after having fled the initial discovery of these horrific creatures. His determined eyes searched for the one leading this crazed quest for Plains Tribal blood, the one named Two Rivers. There was no doubt in Hunting Moon's mind this attack was a true sign that Two Rivers had by now fully passed over to join the evil spirits destructively living on the Great Plains!

Only two blue lines distinctive painted on under each eye remained as the only recognizable feature on a pale withdrawn face displaying blackened pupils. A feature designed to aggressively tell all who witnessed of his bloodthirsty rage. It was blatantly apparent the last remnants of his humanity were now with the wind. The pale gaunt appearance of all these Vampires gave false impression that such unhealthy beings were surely weakened and no longer spirited warriors! It was foolishly believed by some of the tribe the Vampire Warriors would be unable to sustain endeavor in a hand to hand combat situation. However such brash assumptions were quickly proven incorrect as many over confident braves now found themselves easily thrown through the air by the will of a Vampire. Worryingly, this undisputable display of strength would mean extreme care and skill would be needed if these weaker humans were to somehow achieve the upper hand in a ferocious battle none could have ever have imagined. A savage fight to the death against dark spirits from not only the Great Plains but quite possibly also from another world beyond the Great Spirit? Many of the disillusioned braves felt sure they had somehow managed to unwittingly cross over sacred boundaries delegated by the Great Spirit himself! How could this possibly be? Each warrior silently questioned during this most uncommon night of nights?'

Shawnee tried extremely hard to commit all the various details of the fight to memory as silently and full of admiration she focused on each and every word of the tale spoken by the wise old grandma Shee. 'Soon the village grounds were exploding like the 4th of July as many of the warriors drew upon inner strength to strike the fatal blow to many of the night invaders! However as each of the Vampire invaders fell another would soon be resurrected from our very own ranks of dead warriors! Horrified by this occurrence they soon discovered that not all of our fallen warriors would remain destined to travel with the Great Spirit of the plains. Disparagingly some of the braves were destined to be reborn as members of this previously unimagined Vampire tribe. Many of the brave hearted warriors were swiftly overcome with confusion as now once known village brothers approached them only to then reveal their new identity as a Vampire! Unfortunately for many of these hapless braves they learned of this change of status before they could act in their own defense! The ensuing battle for the village appeared doomed as more and more fallen warriors transcended over to the macabre creatures of the night, reborn with a new unquenchable desire for fresh blood. It was said the sacred grounds of the proud village rapidly turned to blood red as the invaders viciously struck out at increasingly despondent braves. Fighting with all their might and honor to protect waiting loved ones. Only the chant of 'For Our Tribal Family' would be heard as heroic tribesmen battled a fate destined to take their souls into an unknown dark realm!'

'Unabated bone chilling screams of terror and pain echoed throughout tee pees and into the communal hut where the last of the remaining villages were closely gathered. By now many of the outer village residents had succumb to the onslaught of bloodthirsty violence and had unwillingly added their souls to list of the undead. Sadly when one of the last fighting fit warriors returned to the hut it was announced the village chief was no longer with the spiritually living and that his head had been cut off by Bear Paw to prevent him joining the dark spirits. The warrior messenger called upon the Medicine Man to pray for all remaining souls to travel to the Great Spirit instead of joining the Vampire creatures of the night! In response the Medicine Man began the most powerful chant in his possession as now he danced and waved his hands to add to the strength of his request. To confirm the power of the protective chant for all remaining, the Medicine Man demanded all remaining villagers to drink from the share water he had just blessed. Instantly all the gathered women, children and injured warriors drank from the blessed water in the belief their souls would now be protected! Moments after the last of the villagers drank the blessed holy water a rampaging intruder breached the weakened outer defenses and then entered the hut! Horrified at the menacing sight on display all the hut's residents cautiously maneuvered backwards in fear. With the only exception being the Medicine Man who reacted by swiftly tossing a bowl of the blessed water onto the unsuspecting face of the approaching night stalker'

'An odor of pitted burning flesh instantly overcame all in the large hut as blessed holy fluid acted like acid on the pale white skin of the stunned attacker! Crisp hissing sounds of scorched burning flesh echoed throughout as for the first time a Vampire discovered they possessed a weakness that could be exploited by the village warriors to repel them. Presenting a repulsed look of contempt the smoldering invader hastily retreated back into the night, leaving behind a distinct odor of burning dead flesh in its wake! Believing it to be a gift from the Great Spirit the remaining warriors quickly dipped all weapons available into the sacred vessel of water containing the medicine man's powerful blessing. Moments later another ready for the kill Vampire entered the hut, only to find its self on the receiving end of blessed water reprisal! Elated, the warriors rejoiced at the arrival of their newly discovered weapon capable of not only retaliation but also total annihilation of these ferocious creatures of the night. Armed with blessed weapons plus any vessel capable of carrying the blessed holy water they hurriedly departed the community hut. It was quickly ordered that any other living souls retreat to the sanctuary of the Medicine Man where they would then be given the necessary tools to repel these bloodthirsty invaders! Not long after, silhouettes of fleeing Vampires filled the night sky as below victorious villagers added strength to the holy water by condemning all these creatures of the night to an eternity in hell'

'Miraculously the tenacious tribe was saved! The next day volunteers were dispatched to all nearby villages to spread the word of how to repel these abominations of the Great Spirit back to where they could not threaten the tribes of the Indian Plains. Of course such an encounter was never disclosed to the other Great Plains invaders many years later, the white pioneers. The white man's arrival seemed to come in such flowing numbers that once again the Vampire creatures began to venture beyond the familiar territory they had been convincingly condemned to. Hunting Moon had survived the horrific battle for the village and loudly decreed that if the white man wants this land he will have to find his own weapon powerful enough to keep these blood seeking night stalkers at bay. As it turns out many of the early pioneers that had previously disappeared were mistakenly believed to have been taken by the Indian inhabitants of the plains. Although for now, it was only the Vampires and the tribesmen of the land in possession of the disturbing truth of exactly how history was really being written. Later on as the white man grew in numbers and started to retaliate back at the Plains Indians for the perceived acts of aggression against the pioneers. Hunting Moon finally realized his mistake of not having revealed the presence of the Vampire creature lusting for blood, be it Indian tribesman or Pioneer white man'

A stunned Shawnee unusually remained utterly silent when Grandma Shee spoke, however this time it was in total amazement rather than respect. Attempting to process all aspects of this strange tale depicting the Vampire creature's arrival to the lands known as the Great Plains. A mystified Shawnee soon found herself questioning Grandma Shee about anything and everything that had ever entered her mind when it came to Vampires. "But what about Dracula and all the other well known tales of the Vampire?" With no answers offered and after some lateral thinking an unsure Shawnee came to this conclusion. "If the Vampire appeared from lands unknown onto the Great Plains, well surely they must have also appeared in the lands known to be Europe as well. Heck when it comes to this stuff who can say what really was to happen all those many long moons ago?" To the point, who can say what actually happens in this generation? You either believe in Vampires or you do not. One thing is for sure though, once you encounter one you will soon sway your thinking around to the positive side of the equation! Although never having met one of these bloodthirsty feeders of the night, Shawnee's faith in her wise old grandma was enough for her to consider the fact that these entities were no doubt still living amongst the humans. Even if most of the humans were blissfully unaware of the evil who stalk them after dark!

Shawnee got around to wondering of the fate of all the dead warriors from the great battle to save the village? Grandma Shee was quick to announce that although many loved ones had fallen on that fateful night it was voted by the remaining tribal council to bury the remains of all the combatants of the night on top of the highest hill. So their souls could find their back to the Great Spirit above. 'You mean!' .. Grandma Shee jumped in 'Yes Shawnee both the remains of Vampires and Humans were buried together on the high ground later to become known as Graveyard Hill. The tribe had hurriedly buried all in a series of mixed graves and then proclaimed the land to be tainted! Meaning no member of the tribe could ever walk upon this land and expect to survive the experience' Shawnee confidently asked 'Is that why the reservation has never claimed the land back from the town?' A smiling Grandma Shee nodded her approval then stated 'Yes Shawnee you got it one, that is a place of evil and now you know why I wish for you not to go there! I worry for you and your friends because danger still resides under the tarnished soil within the boundaries of the graveyard!' Shawnee rose to her feet, trapped within her thoughts of all things evil. Not wishing to lie to her Grandma Shee, Shawnee avoided anymore talk of the graveyard and soon thanked her wise old grandmother for the words of wisdom and the time taken to share them. As Shawnee retreated back to her rusty old pickup Grandma Shee looked up to the Great Spirit requesting for him to look over a mischievous grand daughter, who undoubtedly would travel to the graveyard with her friends!

In fact Grandma Shee was so convinced that Shawnee would soon be exploring the realms of the cursed that a decision was now made to further protect her pure young soul. 'Shawnee wait, there is more to the story, I feel you need to hear it' Tantalized by the prospect of even more secretive information on offer Shawnee stopped dead in her tracks then swung around in anticipation of what was to about to be shared? Grandma Shee was soon to catch up with the waiting Shawnee as now she openly muttered 'Naughty girl' under breath. Shawnee swiftly replied to the barely audible words with a cheeky smile that only a loving Grandmother could forgive! 'Please do share Grandma Shee!' Catching her breath Grandma Shee went to further explain 'Hunting Moon went on to live for many years after the battle for the village and he was revered by many as the man who first encountered the creature's of the night alongside the now lost soul of Two Rivers. Although the safety of the village would remain strong he knew one day Two Rivers would return seeking vengeance and another attempt to steal his soul! So when that fateful day arrived, Hunting Moon was prepared in his mind and perhaps even looking forwards to the confrontation of two opposing wills. By now Hunting Moon had outlived many of the braves who fought the historic battle and was growing tied and weary of life. He was now ready for his impending meeting with the Great Spirit and had spoken to him many times in the solitude of his tee pee while smoking the peace pipe'

'The evening of Two River's return was a strangely cold night in middle of the high season of the summer? Now a wise old man, Hunting Moon could sense this night was decidedly set aside for evil of the world to be active. He knew to expect Two River's arrival to his tee pee at this time. As silently predicted his expectations were soon realized not long after the sun had set. Sensing his foes presence, Hunting Moon spoke the words 'Show yourself Two Rivers, I sense your company and have been waiting for this day for many years now! I have even discussed the outcome with the Great Spirit at great length. My actions will see me embraced with a warm acceptance you shall never experience. Your voyage to the darkness of the Great Plains shall never be forgiven by the Great Spirit. Although I can never forgive myself for the way it came about. For your lost soul I will pray when asked of who needs eternal guidance from the Great Spirit. Although of course for the many lives you have taken my prayers will be in vain! But I must try and redeem myself for the role I played in this abomination of the Great Path Of Life. I know you seek to draw my blood and end my life. However this is something I cannot allow so it is with a strong faith in the Great Spirit I choose to end my days before you can take me to the dark side' Suddenly a seemingly agitated Two Rivers made his move on the wise old Hunting Moon. However he was too late to stop Hunting Moon from violently slitting his own throat so deep that death was almost instant. Repulsed and frustrated Two Rivers knew the blood was surely tainted by death and undrinkable. Hunting Moon had given his life to win the final victory with a defiant honor born of legend'

Shawnee inquisitively noticed Grandma Shee fiddling with a previously unseen necklace. It was a simple necklace adorning just one single extra large tooth. Most likely belonging to what would have been a primitive mountain lion born many thousands of years ago such was the tooth's size. Sensing it was somehow relevant to the moment at hand Shawnee inquired as to why this unusual form of jewelry had now captured Grandma Shee's attention? Her question was soon answered 'This is what Hunting Moon was wearing when he took his own life to offer to the Great Spirit, his last drops of living blood fell upon this ancient tooth. Once living this blood was then followed on by the blood of death, tainted this blood forcefully repelled the Vampire known as Two Rivers far away. It is said to be a powerful weapon against the feeders of the night and it has been in our family for many many generations' Shawnee jumped in at this point inquiring 'Our family?' At this point a smiling Grandma Shee replied 'Yes we are the descendants of Hunting Moon's blood and his strength lives within us and this old necklace. I could never forgive myself if I did not pass it on to you, considering what you are planning' Shawnee tried hopelessly to gloss over the upcoming foray onto Graveyard Hill's cemetery. 'Planning?' Shaking her weary head Grandma Shee requested Shawnee not to treat her as the fool and then stated you do not live to be this old if you cannot read the actions of those around you my mischievous Shawnee.

Feeling somewhat foolish and slightly disrespectful Shawnee bowed her head as a sign of admission, for she knew better than to try and outwit this feisty grand old lady of the Great Plains! 'Grandma I have one more question for you, in the old town newspapers it said many of the Medicine Men had disappeared over the years, I thought they were protected?' The thought of even the wise Medicine Man succumbing to the evil of the night really did play on Shawnee's mind, but Grandma Shee soon put things correctly into place. 'An important question has merged into the conversation. Were they really the true Medicine Men of the tribe?' Understanding the clever ruse Shawnee was once again in admiration of the sacrifice her tribal descendants had made for the ongoing good of all. Then from behind her back Grandma Shee surprisingly offered a large canteen full of water and spoke the words 'Who said the purveyor of medicine must be born into life as a man?' Realizing the incredible truth behind these cryptic words spoken Shawnee cheerfully proclaimed so us Indians had women's lib way before the white folk?' A laughing Grandma Shee simply smiled then suggested using the holy water wisely when called on upon. Now positioned back in the pickup and ready to go Shawnee whispered the words 'Thank you' to the wise old lady waving goodbye, a goodbye she would later pray after dark would not be the last.

EXPLORATION

Upon Shawnee's awaited return Tom and Jacob instantly knew she was hiding a big secret. Going by the whimsical look on her confident face as her old pickup pulled over in a flurry of dust rising up from the wheels screeching brakes. Tom enthusiastically ran over the pickup in a pre planned demonstration of just how much he was embracing this whole new approach to living about what he was writing. However Shawnee was quick to explain the story behind Graveyard Hill would not be spoken of in a public street. To the point it was still a bit of a dilemma as to where exactly she could share the ancient tale of the not only the town's beginning. But also the associated evil that lives only in the night while patiently laying in wait for the perfect victim that no one will ever miss! By now Jacob had also joining the chorus seeking full disclosure of what to expect once their journey to the dark side commenced? Alas, it was all to no avail as stubbornly Shawnee consistently refused all crafty attempts to make her share any aspect of the intriguing tale. Much to the others annoyance, Shawnee would frustratingly wait until she knew that all three members of the group would be safe. Glancing around the currently vacated main street of the town, it was eventually decided the only truly safe place where such an evil story could be shared was the old church. A building basically only ever used on a Sunday. Shawnee looked to the church then observed the barely visible graveyard overlooking the town from above. It now dawned upon her how ironic it was that unknowingly the town's church would be placed so close to the hidden the dark side. Perhaps it was always meant to be?

All participants were soon in solemn agreement that although nothing could be guaranteed, yes the church was possibly the best option to share such a tale. Basically Jacob didn't mind where he heard the details just as long as he got all the info and gossip regarding his town's hidden history. Tom was slightly more cautious though and even checked behind them to make sure no-one followed in their footsteps. Once inside the noticeably derelict old wooden building an excited Shawnee finally shared as much as her full to the brim memory could recall. The two boy's played close attention but eventually both found their focus curiosity wandering down to the direction of the withered old canteen in Shawnee's possession. Unspoken, their pending question would be answered by an observant Shawnee. After waiting a few seconds for dramatic effect it was revealed that precious holy water was contained in the old rustic water vessel and that it came with a warning to use it wisely when the need came about. Having paid close attention to the historic tale shared by Shawnee. Tom excitedly suggested just like the warriors of the battle perhaps they too should be dipping some of the protective holy water from the old canteen onto their equipment. Shawnee agreed and proposed before they go up the hill, all should be armed with a blessed hunting knife as part of the groups defensive strategy. The boys happily concurred with Shawnee's wise words as they both made a mental footnote to bring along this essential tool for the upcoming adventure at hand. Together, both boys held a new admiration for Shawnee after hearing of Grandma Shee's ancient tale. It was noticed Shawnee was also walking just a bit taller now she was armed with the passed on knowledge of her ancestors.

There could be no denying Shawnee's inherent new pride as she regularly adjusted her tribal bead necklace. With full disclosure of Grandma Shee's story completed the trio then departed the perceived safety of the old rundown church. They agreed to go their separate ways then met up again later that night to begin this unique quest for discovery and truth. Tom's mind was spinning as he felt a barrage of inspired creative juices awakening from within him for perhaps the very first time? This was going to be a memorable adventure repeatedly he assured himself. So much so that he was even starting to forget about the very real possibility of a dangerous encounter with what was 'Evil from the Great Plains' As each member of the adventurous trio returned to the safe confines of home a comprehensive search began for any and all appropriate weapons. A rendezvous was scheduled for eleven outside the old church. They figured to allow roughly about an hour for the one and a half mile ascent to the waiting graveyard up above in what was becoming a unusually misty night! As if to purposely hide the peak of the hill to all who dared to confirm its very existence. Constant feelings of apprehension were joined by excited anticipation as the trio now deflected all questions from curious loved ones holding a sneaking suspicion that tonight was something out of the ordinary.

Tom was the first to arrive and soon had a voice recorder in hand as he described the night sky. He also believed the low hanging mist was not only a nuisance but also a strangely timed occurrence, considering the trios planned activities for the night. Random noises that were normally commonplace soon began playing tricks on his mind. As now the old town's night time shadows seemed to haphazardly dance about at regular intervals for no justifiable reason he could think of? Alone and feeling a little vulnerable he found himself wishing for the fast arrival of the other two travellers into the night, preferably sooner than later! Not long after Tom gratefully observed the outlined figure of a wobbly pushbike rider that would soon reveal its self to be an enthusiastic Jacob. He was loaded up with all manner of bags, tools and other equipment. A relieved Tom was quick to suggest a pack mule might be the more appropriate means of transporting all on display. Huffing and puffing an obviously exhausted Jacob was quick to agree with Tom's tongue in cheek synopsis. Next came the probing question of 'If you had so much stuff why didn't you just get Shawnee to pick you up on the way through?' Embarrassed and lost for words a still heavy breathing Jacob could only manage to shrug his shoulders in dismay. The two boys then patiently waited for the familiar sound of Shawnee's rusty old pickup to drive up Main Street. Thankfully without too much delay that's exactly what they heard, much to their silent relief. Because if for whatever reason Shawnee did not make the arranged rendezvous, the boys may have just been a little too frightened to continue without her?

For Tom the dilemma of whether go up the hill without her would have been an extremely hard decision now that his new exposed 'creative juices' were flowing. However the nervous time spent alone waiting for his comrade's appearance was in its self nearly enough to scare him away from the whole unusual expedition. But that was all hearsay now that the familiar sound of an arriving pickup could be heard. No point contemplating a scenario that was redundant once the trio was reunited. Not long after her slightly late arrival the sound of highly amused laughter emanated loudly out from the stationary pickup as Shawnee observed the large volume of equipment attached to various sections of Jacob's body. Next came the sarcastic words 'We are only going up a big hill' as further more Shawnee then suggested he was perhaps well enough prepared for a journey to the summit of Mount Everest. 'Did you remember the oxygen canisters for when we reach the top?' At this point Jacob decided to reassess his vast array of weapons and tools. Part of which included a collection of bags for gathering evidence, a small garden shovel in case they were buried alive! There was even an assortment of garlic sauces stolen from his mother's pantry that could be used to repel any and all attacking Vampires! After a little more taunting from a giggling Shawnee and Tom his load was soon lightened enough that it was viable for him to at least attempt to make the ascent to the top.

After the initial tirade of tongue in cheek verbal harassment finally ceased a mentally defeated Jacob could only say 'It's your fault Shawnee, what with all that talk about holy water and stuff I just thought better to be over prepared than under prepared' Again the group shared a collective giggle then set about making inroads for the unusual journey ahead. Tom curiously asked 'Did anyone else expect this strange mist?' No immediate reply was assumed to be a definite 'No' Suspiciously he could not help but to silently wonder why it had appeared tonight? Then again perhaps it was always present and he had simply never gone about acknowledging it before. Perhaps that reassuring scenario was closer to the actual truth. It was always here but had just never been noticed before, simple! Eventually Tom decided that some small more talk may break the unsettling thoughts currently going through everyone's mind 'Do you think there will be any really old graves up there?' .. 'Of course there will be' came the brisk reply from a newly educated Shawnee proudly displaying confidant knowledge of all things old world Graveyard Hill. Jacob also contributes his thoughts on the matter. 'Well ya gotta remember that this is one of the first town's from the entire Great Plains area that was inhabited by the settlers. So I guess it would be safe to assume that there would be some that are well over one hundred and fifty years old by now' Tom contemplated Jacob's assumption then added 'I guess that make sense, hey let's see who can find the oldest!' Shawnee also joined in the conversation by asking 'What's the prize?'

Then in a tone of a voice able to unnerve even an over confident Shawnee a mischievous Jacob replied 'Your Life' Without purposely meaning it Jacob had instantly reignited all doubts about the evenings planned events. Simple truth was it might not have been such a bad thing to have them all solely concentrating on the task at hand again. Quietly now they each relived the ancient tale passed on by Shawnee's wise old grandma and how whatever was up the top of the hill could have perhaps been there much longer than any 'newly arrived settlers' However until they reached the top all thoughts and expressed views on anything to do with old gravesites would remain pure conjecture until it could be extensively proven otherwise. There was a certain amount of blended excitement hidden underneath the visible fear they each dealt with. Imagine one day telling your grand kids of how you went hunting for Vampires and actually found not only one, but a whole deadly lair of them! Perchance a bit of fear was a good thing to keep them their wits about them. Each were well aware that to pass on this dark story it would mean they would all have to survive the unusual expedition to the top and anything beyond. In what seemed no time at all they were now about halfway up to the peak which prompted an inspired Shawnee to declare 'Our destiny is soon upon us, live it, embrace it!' However any reciprocated words of support were not forthcoming. Otherwise distracted, the boys were now studying the view well below them while contemplating if anything so macabre could go on for so long unnoticed? United in their conclusion, came a definitive yes if this persistent mist was normally present.

Observing the swing of attention to the landscape behind a predictable Shawnee once again tried to inspire the trailing boys with yet another phrase of wisdom 'Just think we are like the pioneers of yesterday and what did they find? .... Gold!' You sure did have to give Shawnee credit for always being motivated! There was no doubt about it that although this had started off as a challenge for Tom it was Shawnee that had fully embraced this brave new world of discoveries and centuries old tales of resident evil. It was not so much that Shawnee totally believed Grandma Shee's old tales that worried Tom and Jacob. It was the fact that she was ready to throw herself so readily into the world of the undead that worried them. They could only hope she would remain level headed if things actually took a turn for the worst. Secretly Tom was just a little bit jealous as he watched the way Shawnee strode so enthusiastically up to the hill's old graveyard. How could she be so brave or so foolish he asked himself? In the end he could only accept some folk are born with an adventurous spirit and Shawnee was undoubtedly one of them! Perhaps it would become a valuable asset in the end. Tom also considered that if experiencing conflicting emotions was the best path to writing success, he truly was now experiencing a plethora of unprecedented feelings right about now! Seems his friend Jacob really had challenged him far beyond his normal safety based limits.

Leading up front came Shawnee's excited words of 'I can see the outline of a fence or something' Leaving no doubt, you could sense the enthusiasm in her voice. Finally this was the turning point for the trailing boys to hurry up and get involved as they scampered up the hill to achieve the same view as the waiting Shawnee. 'You're right, it's old iron fence from what I can tell' announced a surprisingly confident Tom as now he stood alongside the other two adventurers. As they slowly studied the graveyard's boundaries it was soon noted that an old rusty entrance gate somewhere nearby was presumably swinging in a non-existent breeze? As yet there was no other noticeable movement seen amongst the mist. This unexplained occurrence sure did add a spooky touch of mystery to this first sighting of the old graveyard! Jacob seized the moment at hand to remind Tom 'See this is what I am talking about, it's all here. The drama, the mystery and the suspense! I can't believe we have waited so long to come here and explore this old part of the town's history' Feeling relieved to be among other adventurers Tom replied 'Perhaps the timing had to be right? After all if Shawnee was not with us we may just be a little out of our depths?' Desiring for all the group to share the responsibilities Shawnee simply stated 'Remember there is strength in numbers' Although a cautious Tom recalled 'Do you think that's what the first Indian village said as they were overrun by Vampires?' Sensing the mounting tension Jacob now joked 'Told ya I should brought the garlic sauces!'

After a short burst of laughter they each took a reassuring deep breath then edged forwards to the waiting sound of an unseen swinging gate presumably just up ahead. All too soon they arrived at a rusty old iron fence surrounding the mysterious graveyard's boundary. 'Hurry this way!' an eager Shawnee suggested as next she hurriedly made her way to the unsettling sounds of a rusty hinge demonstrating movement. Seconds later the two boys caught up to a stationary Shawnee. Standing in a trance like state as she watched a grand old entrance gate slowly swinging in a nonexistent breeze. 'Do you see what I see?' She questioned 'Yes we do' both boys simultaneously responded. Perplexed, Shawnee further commented 'There is no breeze to make that happen' Shawnee's words of reasoning went un-replied to because at this point she was stating the obvious. There was simply no way Tom or Jacob could offer a viable explanation. Unsettled by this eerie sight all previous feelings of anxiety and doubt returned to each of the explorer's wary minds. It was only now really dawning upon them that a dark presence not of this world could indeed inhabit these mysteriously tainted grounds. In a momentary flash of reasoning Grandma Shee's stories of ancient evil were considered to be factual by not only the boys but also a strangely subdued Shawnee. It was probably her silence that secretly concerned both Tom and Jacob the most because up until this point Shawnee had been a pillar of strength. To recognize noticeable doubt upon her face meant that yes, she was now also experiencing similar feelings of uncertainty. Whether she was aware of it or not?

Although eventually it would be a slightly trembling Shawnee able break the uneasiness of the moment and take the first dramatic step into the boundaries of what may very well be a more sinister existence? Possibly not even born of this earth? Perhaps this was a place where evil is the common standard and where frail human lives are easily dismissed as a convenient currency for the next damnation into hell and then beyond? Maybe their unexpected and uninvited presence would instantly awaken all of the undead now that this dark world's boundaries had been so innocently crossed over? Or it could be there was a specific plan carefully set in place by the overlords of this realm allowing for these young travellers to experience a glorious false hope. Only have their souls to be torn away from them! Daunting questions and unnatural instincts would need to be conquered if they choose to continue on past this point. A wary Tom and Jacob cringed in disbelief as a daring Shawnee placed her shaky right foot onto the hallowed earth of where the dead of so many moons ago presumably now lay in peaceful rest. In the end it all became too much for the on looking boys who now could only listen to the event taking place as next they both averted their eyes to the perceived waiting terror soon to the experienced. With neither daring to view the outcome of Shawnee's brave steps forward they blindly waited until hearing the whispered words 'Hurry up will you' Instant relief accompanied the two boys as quickly they now also stepped into the old graveyards sacred grounds.

No words were spoken but it was obvious you could cut the tension in the air with a knife, a few deep breathes later, all managed to once more regain their composure. It was pure relief just to feel the air entering their lungs to settle things down. Finally the next lingering silence was broken by an apparently calmer sounding Tom 'Well that was an experience, my first steps into evil' This observation was swiftly silenced by a cautious Shawnee 'Avoid saying certain words out loud when we are upon this ground' And with that one short statement all the anxiety of the previous two minutes came flooding back to all as slowly they ventured ever so carefully forwards to the waiting graves! Concerned, Jacob put his hand to his chest to confirm his heart was really beating at such a rapid pace? Looking on, Tom did the same then smiled to reassure Jacob it was completely normal considering the destination and the timing of the event. This sure was some spooky place, perhaps even so for a well-versed fiction author of the darker side of things? Yet here was the inexperienced Tom, attempting to take it all in whilst trying to remain composed in front of his fellow nighttime explorers. It really was a bizarre test of mental stamina he nervously reassured himself as next he began to carefully study the surrounding headstones and old world crosses. Each strategically placed over the unkempt gravesites to protect its departed occupier in their journey beyond mortal life. Tom eventually summoned up a courage he never knew existed within him as carefully he moved close enough to start reading old words depicting a pioneer's last goodbyes.

The rugged history of such a forgotten place was not lost on him as silently he proudly acknowledged just how toughened and how brave these pioneers really were! How courageous of them to leave the safety of the well established cities of the day to travel throughout the inhospitable unforgiving lands of the Great Plains. And to think there were so many trying to etch out a meager survival by starting up a crop farm or possibly a shop of some sort in the hope of successfully supplying all the passing travelers of these dusty un-established roads. There could be no doubting the severity of the encounters with a harsh landscape all the early pioneers bravely faced. Without wishing to verbally state it he also contemplated the ongoing hatred and land claims between Indians and the early white settlers. This school of thought was soon confirmed when he approached a grave displayed just three disturbing words on wooden headstone 'Scalped by Indians' Moments later he peered over to the right only to see his good friend named Shawnee. As he did so another world of history and regret passed through his mind. In silent acceptance Tom could only be grateful for his place in current history as next he walked over to observe both Shawnee and Jacob fully immersed into this land's yesteryears. Side by side they respectfully stood reading old inscriptions depicting a harsh life out on the plains. There was no way a school lesson could ever equal all this history on display they each agreed. Suddenly they collectively realized they were all alive and even safe? It then occurred to all that previous feelings of mortal danger were maybe just a little unfounded as this unique history lesson continued on.

'So what is oldest so far?' An inquisitive Tom asked out loud. Shawnee replied '1846' with Jacob stating '1853 for me, what about you Tom?' It then dawned upon Tom he hadn't been reading any of the headstones dates as he explored his way through this eternal resting place of so many untold stories from another era. 'I have not been looking .... Seems I forgot' All too soon came the troubling words from a laughing Jacob 'Well you know what the prize is so you had better start paying attention or you will never get to write another word!' This one off the cuff remark again reminded all the reason they had made this out of the ordinary journey... to discover the evil known as 'Vampire' Within seconds of Jacobs unsettling choice of words a collection of wind powered migrating tumbleweeds arrived at their feet! Yet somehow the stagnant thick mist remained noticeably unaffected? It was enough to unnerve all as next they considered exactly what actions were needed to bring this off beat exploration to some form of plausible conclusion. Which was the answer to the beckoning question of 'Do Vampires really live here?' Refocused on the immediate task at hand the study of each old gravesite now solely concentrated on any messages from the past confirming strange happenings in the town. A seemingly fruitless search continued on for half an hour until finally the welcomed words of 'I think I have found something' came from Jacob's direction. In an instant he was joined by an excited Shawnee and the eager Tom 'What is it, what? What have you discovered?' Proudly pointing to the evidence Jacob stood proudly firm as he directed his friend's eyes to the inscription on a old decrepit headstone.

'Taken from God's will the soul of this wretched man was without mercy violently migrated to the darkness of hell as he cried out for eternal forgiveness from his peers' Unconvinced Tom declared 'That's hardly proof positive of abundant evil or Vampires! Seconds later came Shawnee's proclamation 'Well what about this one then' as quickly she read out the final worldly observations made by persons unknown. 'Here lies the last mortal remnant's of an innocent man whose blood was ferociously drained by the evil of the night' Conceding this example appeared much closer to real proof. Tom had to admit this inscription was a much stronger declaration of the unfortunate inhabitant of the grave's tainted fate. Over the course of the following minutes the enlightened trio would further discover this entire section of the old pioneer's graveyard was abound with similarly disturbingly worded headstones. It was also obvious these gravesites were lacking the finer details of the earlier examples found over the other side of the grounds. There was no fancy lettering or carvings present on these headstones. Instead they were just plain examples of a poor man's grave. Then after some careful collating of all existing dates it could be agreed upon that in the year 1860 and beyond that this hapless town had succumb to the forces born to a dark nature. Dark forces regularly feasting upon their very souls by extracting all of the life giving blood from each and every one of them! In tones of somber regret Tom stated 'There are so many of them ..... Possibly even hundreds up here!' lost for an appropriate response both Shawnee and Jacob simply remained silent as a mark of respect to so many fallen souls of the past.

The most worrying aspect of all these closely dated happenings was that they had never been alerted to this macabre part of the town's blemished history. For reasons unknown it seems this lurking evil presence was purposely destined to remain hidden from the modern world of the town below if the elder folk had their way. Intrigued, they continued to closely read the many individually scripted headstones collectively demonstrating just how dramatically this wild frontier town had regressed. All round them on display was evidence of a growing state of panic. Tormented emotions constantly accompanied an ever-present threat of being taken in the night by mysterious Vampire creatures that as yet were basically unknown to mankind. It was extremely confronting to think that not only did these early settlers have to contend with wild animals such as mountain lions; coyotes and the occasional lost wandering bear. They also had to deal with the ongoing threat of the local Indians. All of which was now combined with the very real threat of ever-present blood feeders of the night! Tom found his imagination taken to the limit as he tried to sincerely appreciate to the toughest of times these amazingly hardened country folk lived in.

Yet here they were, a testament to the frontier man's endurance and will to survive, no matter what the challenge! And to think here now stood the young trio following in the historical footsteps of the previous explorers of the Great Plains, it was a humbling experience for all. Even, if their motives were completely different to their fore fathers. It did occur to an admiring Tom that perhaps their actions were not all that too far different to that of the rugged men and women who walked upon these grounds some one hundred and fifty years ago now. Here they were, exploring the unknown and taking a chance for probably little pay off if indeed any? Having agreed on the validity of the circumstantial evidence abound the small group were thoroughly convinced of not only Grandma Shee's words. But also by the many indisputable archives that lay within reach of their fingertips in nearly every direction they chose to view. An observant Jacob noticed Toms demeanour had seemed to change over the last five to ten minutes 'What's up Tom?' he inquired, suspecting his friend had finally released the true writer's spirit from within. 'I can't believe we are here and seeing all this, how could we grow up so close to it all and never know?"... 'Someone needs to document all these wrong doings' Shawnee had also noted the change in Tom 'It seems our little mission is starting to get some big results hey Tom!' Acknowledging the transformation of awareness Tom happily conceded his once sheltered eyes were fully opened to the varied aspects of not only the value of a life but also the mysterious darker side that hides in the shadows.

Although happy to admit he was half scared out of his wits thinking about the demise of the graveyards occupants. Tom was not quite sure of what else this little expedition would be able to achieve? Jacob slowly looked around then made an unexpected suggestion, perhaps to truly live in these pioneer's footsteps they may have to lay down upon the their graves whole looking to the sky to uncover the ultimate answer. This bizarre option of an extra dimensional view into the lives of the fallen did not sit too well with either Shawnee or Tom. The opportunity to 'Place themselves in their fallen shoes' appeared to probe just a little bit too far, in the minds of the uneasy duo. Although it was soon obvious Jacob would not easily accept the word 'No' for an answer. As next he regularly dared them both to go the extra mile and fully immerse themselves into where the sleeping dead lay undisturbed for well over a century for the most part. Believing he had well and truly meet Jacob's previous challenge for him to venture into this scary piece of the town's history Tom questioned what such fool hardy actions could ultimately achieve? In his defense Jacob claimed this was one of the most unique opportunities Tom would ever have when it came 'living the life of a horror writer' Seconds later while sensing a slight weakening in Tom's attitude Jacob reiterated 'Don't you understand that it's the exact reasons you don't wish to do it that is the exact reason you should ........do you understand why you are really here?'

Lost to the moment and forgetting about any of the close by Shawnee's worried concerns defiantly a newly adventurous Tom cautiously edged forwards to one of the more derelict examples of waiting resting places. A long forgotten grave consisting of an old wooden cross bearing no legible inscription accompanied by large number of wood worm holes scattered all over the vertical and horizontal pieces. It was the perfect choice, a voiceless moment from so many years gone by and now conveniently forgotten by the rest of humanity. Who was it that lay here for so long? What was their unique story? Were they also a resentful victim of the plains night prowlers? Jacob's previous offer to lie down on a grave and look up to the night sky through the mist was just too much for aspiring writer Tom to resist! He soon requested solidarity from the other two nearby explorers and for them to join him in this strange quest of understanding. Eager to join in Jacob excitedly hurriedly maneuvered to his chosen gravesite! It was similar to Tom's choice, one of the less extravagant examples when compared to the most of the surrounding resting places for long dead mortals. A reluctant Shawnee appeared to be lost in thought as she vaguely glanced around for her suitable choice. Tom and Jacob chose not to pressure her in the knowledge she was normally quite a strong willed individual and this was presumably a very awkward moment for her. It was quite possible that her family's Indian heritage was playing on her mind at this point.

Eventually the most appropriate grave to lay and study the misty night sky above was chosen. Unlike the two boys Shawnee's choice was a slightly more distinguished example. Displaying an inscription depicting how the unfortunate soul that lay beneath was also confirmed as another victim of the night stalkers. The ornate inscription told of when the carcass was discovered it was totally void of any bodily fluids, leaving the grieving family to contemplate if this was also part of the curse? With everybody positioned at the foot of their chosen grave Jacob softly asked the question 'Are you ready to open your minds?' With no reply on offer only silence accompanied the actions of all as they now lay with their back placed down to the cold black turf underneath. The chilling sensation of the cooler ground against their thin clothing enticed all to take in a quick short breath! Possibly as a subliminal reminder of their first gasps for air as new baby joining the world after escaping the mother's womb. However this was a vastly different scenario, it was strange sensation only adding to the tension of the moment. In sequence one by one they each conquered their fears and laid down flat to gaze upon the misty stars above. They were officially now ready to start this unusual journey into scattered thoughts. Then, before the chance to take in one more deep relaxed breath came a burst of errant tumble weeds bouncing across each of their bodies! It was as if the rolling foliage had purposely managed to include all night explorers in its haphazard path across the graves! Strangely once again there would be no noticeable gusts of wind? A fact that that was not lost on any of the now horizontal travelers suddenly feeling as helpless as a newborn baby!

'Can you feel it Tom?' came the question from Jacob, only ten feet away. 'Yes I understand the purpose behind it all now, I feel enlightened and my mind is now open to the plight and the fears of the early settlers. It must have been a living nightmare to regularly bring up lost member of the township so often. I have no doubt the fear of the situation would have spread like a virus throughout the whole town' Enjoying some comforted shelter within her own unique thoughts Shawnee remained silent to the nearby conversation. She would now openly embrace the opportunity to contemplate a world probably more familiar to her Grandma Shee's great, great, grand parents. At one with the moment Shawnee found herself reliving the struggle between not only the white pioneers and the Indians. But also the raging battle both races fought against the bloodthirsty wrath of the marauding night demons now known as Vampires to both Indians and settlers. The sheer terror of indiscriminate nighttime attacks was evidently experienced across all persuasions of opposing human communities. The time for blaming the frontier's Indians had surpassed! Regretfully the pioneers accepted the eradication of these people of the land would not avail the presence of an ancient evil coming to all daring to sleep tight at night. Shawnee could sense the joyous relief of her people when finally the white man vowed to leave them in peace while hunting for this unusual predator of the dark.

This night of adventure was soon unearthing the inner most thoughts of all these innocent young travelers sub consciousness. Perhaps going even deeper into darkened realms of hidden feelings, such as fear and despair beyond reasonable belief. Without disclosing it, each of the openly exposed youths were painfully aware that if any resident evil associated with this destination chose to now reveal its presence, the chance of survival was minimal. Yet stoically they all lay perfectly still while undertaking this macabre journey of self-discovery and heightened awareness. It was slightly intoxicating to be able float your worries away then live in the shadows of another era. Feeling quite pleased with his efforts to broaden Tom's horizons Jacob felt it was time to get back on his feet and start to think about the impending descent back down the hill. Soon they would be sharing a coffee and tales about some of the old grave's inscriptions. Plus newly formed views on what once hung over this town like an unwanted cloud of doom and misery. With his task completed Jacob had by now decided he really wasn't in the mood to hang around much longer and meet the undead tonight. So with a decision to leave now formed he sat up and went to lift himself by pushing both arms firmly into the dirt underneath to thrust him-self upwards. Surprisingly though he found the cool soil beneath beginning to heat up as next with no prior warning he then found his hands sinking downwards up to his wrists!

Subjected to an eerie sensation of unexplained warmth he suddenly realized something was astray? As next much to his absolute terror he witnessed the black mushy grave's soil around him transcend into a vibrant crimson red glowing brightly upwards to the night. The struggle for better grasp on the ground below continued on as for just a second he felt a moments reprieve. Thankfully the turf below was once more solid enough for him to thrust himself upwards and onto his feet. Pushing up and putting pressure onto his feet a grateful Jacob considered it all to be just a momentary dream as next he felt confident enough to place all his weight to his legs to fully rise up. However much to his utter dismay as he rose upwards the presumably blood stained dirt disturbingly reverted back into the quivering substance having just trapped his hands! This was enough of a fright to force a screeching protest of anguish 'Help it's got me .. I'm trapped!' Feeling his reluctant body sinking even further downwards into the glowing red soil below he worriedly looked over at Tom. Although it would be of no benefit as now Tom was also finding himself trapped within the boundaries of his chosen grave! Extremely frightened, Shawnee was next to scream in protest as she too realized Jacob's predicament was not solely dedicated to his domain. The horrendous reality of the situation now began to set in as next a menacing blood red glow formed around each of the graves boundaries! Desperately struggling for their lives the trapped explorers realized that with every passing second they were all sinking lower and lower into the mushy glow of the warm blood red turf below! Alarmingly it was soon apparent, escape to freedom was not a viable option!

Within the space of half a minute the threatening warmish glow had risen up around their waste and was rapidly climbing upwards to their shoulders! With the deadly thick red glow soon to completely engulf him. Jacob shouted out one last verbal tirade aimed at letting the powers behind this hideous destiny know he would fight back 'Remember the prize Tom and Shawnee' Then as they watched on in horror his struggling body was fully submerged into the substantially brighter crimson red turf! He was gone and his comrades were not far behind on this unimagined journey to a subterranean destination waiting below! Increasingly desperate Tom looked over to franticly struggling Shawnee then questioned with a voice bordering on insanity 'What's the prize?' Shawnee only had a few precious seconds to reply before Tom would completely disappear from sight 'Your life Tom, Your life is the prize!' As now she witnessed his head submerge beyond view into the pulsating blood red soil. Having submitted to the unrelenting forces below a despondent Shawnee hopelessly looked up to the night sky above as she was also unceremoniously sucked downwards to an unknown future?

TRAPPED

Holding his breath for as long as he possibly could Jacob was only one second away from accepting his looming fate, death. Then without any warning he felt the speed of his descent accelerate as freed up frantically kicking legs experienced no resistance to the red glowing trap surrounding him. Ever present feelings of helplessness accompanied all his panicked movements of self-reservation. Short moments later a confused Jacob found himself experiencing momentary free fall. It was only now that his struggling body would break free of the grasping red glow dragging him down to this hidden realm below. Off balance and finding it hard to see Jacob hit the ground hard! Desperately wheezing for air he was severely winded by the impact. Thankfully though, he was still alive and consciously grateful for this fact. The immediate area around him appeared to be a room purposely dug out of the hill's earthy ground. Suffering a few moments of clouded stagger Jacob then regained his equilibrium and gratefully sighted the only doorway to this room of sorts. Demonstrating inbuilt survival instincts, without any thoughts of what lie beyond the room Jacob ran straight to the perceived exit. Although his abrupt entry to the adjoining space was swiftly greeted by a huge rampaging Great Plains Bison buck violently crashing its short horns into what was a roundish tunnel wall forged out of the hills bedrock. A disorientated Jacob soon found himself forced to dive back into the room or be trampled to death by the last thing he had expected to see. A Bison hell bent on crashing into and at anything it could! Completely stunned, Jacob once again found himself winded and back on the floor of the earthen walled room. Although he curiously now noticed the threatening red glow above had dissipated back to the size of a coin.

Seated back down on the cold damp ground Jacob allowed his puzzled mind a few moments to run through the series of events just experienced. No matter how hard he tried to rationalize it, nothing made sense? Especially the part about his near collision with a rampaging Bison just outside in the nearby tunnel. However the human trait of curiosity soon got the better of him as finally he regained some composure and then carefully made his way back into the waiting tunnel. However just as he was about to go beyond the open doorway sounds of Indian dialogue were heard as next moment two hovering pale white airborne Vampire Braves hurriedly flew past the doorway about to be exited. A stunned Jacob instinctively flung himself back against the wall while coming to the conclusion the flying braves were in pursuit of the fleeing beast recently passing by. Trying desperately not to breathe out loud Jacob quickly placed both hands to his mouth to camouflage rapid panting sounds of anxious gasps for air. Worryingly he remained unsure if this reflex movement had been noticed? Perhaps his reflexed actions had been observed but the rampaging Bison was their first preference, who could say? All Jacob could definitively say was that he was alive and placed into an underworld existence he could never have imagined just five minutes ago! Suddenly the words 'The Prize' entered into his thoughts as he remembered it was all now about self-preservation and surviving this nightmarish ordeal until he could escape. Or at least meet up with the other two whom at this point were also living out a horrific sequence of events unconceivable to them only minutes beforehand.

In another chamber nearby Shawnee also found her-self impacting the ground hard after a four second free fall from the blood red mush above that had captured her body. Thankfully her wiry frame allowed for little to no damage sustained. Succumbing to overwhelming feelings of paranoia Shawnee's head rapidly swung from left to right attempting to confirm her new whereabouts? Then just like Jacob had previously discovered Shawnee quickly realized the only exit from this carved out chamber was via a single doorway leading into what appeared to be a tunnel? Ever so cautiously Shawnee found herself sliding up alongside the dampened wall as next she slowly maneuvered towards the waiting escape into a world unknown! Although this also deeply worried her, compared to just waiting in a room to be discovered by god knows what? This strategy presented as the more viable option. Upon almost reaching the room's only exit Shawnee soon recognized the sounds of traditional Indian dialect emanating loudly throughout the subterranean pathway. Which was a thoroughfare apparently winding its self all the way down to ground level? Even though this tribal dialect was a language known to her, the entities speaking it were not as now a quick retreat to the darkest part of the cave room was swiftly called for. The next instant would see Shawnee witness two displeased Vampire Braves hover past the doorway, possibly quarrelling about something related to the lost Bison? Unsure of what to do next Shawnee could only remain absolutely still in the hope her presence went by unnoticed?

The final member of the abducted trio Tom, had suffered the greatest fall of all once freed of the clinging red mush that had so stubbornly held him against his will. Positioned on the ground a sickly pungent odor seeped into every part of his unsuspecting lungs desperately trying to inhale as much life giving oxygen as possible. It was soon apparent the only thing that had saved his body from breaking when hitting the room's floor was the unseen presence of a soft mush underneath? Worryingly it felt very similar in texture and feel to the crimson red goo he just exited out from. Tom's inquisitively searching hands discovered the darkened cave room's floor was completely covered by this unseen repulsive smelling mass of soft tissue. Crawling to the room's brighter entranceway Tom observed the vibrating ground below him was completely covered in what could only be described as enormous red colored maggots! All attacking one another in an attempt to steal precious nutrients from their adversary's bodies! Repulsed at the twisted sight on display Tom now succumb to the vial stench around him as violently he vomited out all fluids and food items from a heaving stomach! Between convulsions, Tom noted a noise he could not quite identify? Then suddenly, he felt the noisy migrating maggot mass of the floor moving over his trembling hands to reach the fresh new warm vomit just offered up! Repulsed by this disturbing group's mass action this unnerving occurrence only enticed him to further empty out the any remaining substances.

Lost and with no indication of the each other's whereabouts or confirmed survival the stranded trio found themselves within a subterranean world usually reserved for blood thirsty creatures of the night. Any and all impulsive acts such as screaming out for help or making sounds of any sort were quickly ruled out. For they all knew that once their presence within this world was acknowledged by the vengeful keepers of these morally corrupt grounds, their future looked bleak indeed. A careful and silent search for each other would be the only feasible way to deal with the current conundrum faced by all. Basic survival instincts would now act as their guide as bravely they all built up enough courage to venture further beyond of the boundaries of their current location. One by one they slowly exited out from the confinements of surrounding earthen walls wrapped around them. There could only be one feasible direction once positioned in the main tunnel and that direction was up! Up to where they had first reluctantly entered into this strange new underworld province of the undead. Up to where once a victorious escape was completed they would go on to tell all the town's folk of their harrowing ordeal just endured! Up to where life has a certain normality about it, even if sometimes boringly predictable! Up to where it is at least safe to walk the streets, well most times! Yes upwards is where heaven waits for all the good people of this world! Instead of downward to where as we know all the lost souls end up, whether they like it or not. All members of this lost trio firmly believed their souls had remained intact and in good order, so surely to travel upwards would ultimately grant them all of their just rewards!

As cautious bodies hugged closely to the dampness of these subterranean walls Tom, Jacob and Shawnee all too soon found themselves flinching with every change of light emanating out from flickering torches placed onto tunnel walls at random intervals. Bringing up the rear Tom could still hear the last remnants of clinging bloodied maggots squelching with his every footstep. This troubling noise only added to his heart stopping paranoia! Tactically he set about changing his natural rhythm by concentrating each step onto the front tippy toe section of his rugged hiking boots that were never designed for such dainty walking style. Although Tom soon felt his legs cramping up and in the end was forced to revert to now familiar squishing sound of maggots underneath that really should by now all dropped off? Perhaps they actually had and it was just a dark paranoia amplifying his every movement upwards to his waiting salvation? Not too far ahead an equally paranoid Shawnee carefully shimmied alongside the dirt walls and just like the others found herself regularly stopping at any indication of a change in light, either from behind or up ahead. It was a disparaging game designed to insidiously mess with all of the human senses and then repeat only minutes later. With no rules in place this mind-bending game's only reward was to keep your sanity for as long as possible! To suffer defeat meant you would unreservedly scream out a bone chilling acceptance of your twisted fate to the waiting creatures of the night below, somewhere deeper in the hill's interior!

Ahead of the trailing others, Jacob observed a strange array of lights ahead? Regaining a little of his lost confidence he felt damn sure it was the required opening to the heavenly night above! In belief freedom beckoned he shrugged off all the fears of his predicament and ran towards the celestial lights ahead. After all isn't that what you're supposed to do? Run to the light! Even though currently living a nightmare beyond all fears, Jacob was supremely confident he was definitely still alive. The running Jacob remained positive that the afterlife was reserved for only the good people of this world and would be upwards, quite possibly just like in the movies. The waiting exit would undoubtedly be an awe inspiring bright light welcoming all worthy lost souls into another world where a joyful existence is all but guaranteed. Yes to go forwards to the light was the only plausible option in Jacob's racing mind. Arriving closer and closer to the heavenly light source just beyond. It was soon disparagingly apparent the previously observed blood red glow that had dragged them all into this hellhole was frustratingly also embedded within this swirling source of light! Confronted by this distinctly unnatural occurrence a disillusioned Jacob stopped dead in his tracks to contemplate the origins of a dark energy mass incorporating all the various elements to exist in such a format. The sheer size of this now familiar swirling glowing red light force also concerned an on-looking Jacob, was it actually growing? It appeared to be enormous when compared to only other version he had recently been trapped in! The presence of constant wave like circular ripple motion upsetting perfectly designed image also worried him. Did it move that was because something hidden treacherous lay hidden within?

His baffled trance was then abruptly interrupted as now Jacob became aware of footsteps closing in on his exposed position. Much to his dismay, here he stood helplessly gazing upwards to a possible escape but unable to reach the desired height to leave this nightmare behind. In somber acceptance of his perceived fate Jacob slowly turned to face the looming creatures of the night. A midnight nightmare was soon to be at his feet and recklessly take him on a downwards spiral to hell and perhaps even beyond? Deciding that his last thoughts of a mortal world should not be that of the approaching danger Jacob closed his eyes to think of how much love his departed mother had bestowed upon him before her untimely passing. Suddenly to his surprise this newfound sanctuary was interrupted by the familiar voice of Shawnee asking why he stood there smiling under the strangest thing she had ever seen? Jumping back into reality of the moment Jacob felt the instant relief of seeing an old friend. Who if they were dead was at least there to accompany him to where ever their strange journey's destination may take them? 'Are you ok?' a puzzled Shawnee asked while recognizing Jacob's distinct absence of any grasp on their current situation. 'Oh ok, of course I am' replied a nonchalant looking Jacob apparently still in a dream like state of mind. Moments later after a brisk shaking down at the hands of a determined Shawnee, Jacob was once more fully coherent.

'Have you seen Tom yet?' inquired a noticeably concerned Shawnee while attempting to establish if they all had survived the entry into this most unconventional house of horrors. 'No I couldn't possibly tell you where he is at this moment? But if we survived I am guessing he has also' In a now brighter positive sounding voice Shawnee declared 'Oh let's hope so' As next she raised her attention upwards to study the incredible sight of a upside down crimson red pond with ripples spiraling out from the middle to a fifty foot round border. 'Wow it looks like the red goo that grabbed us' commented an admiring Shawnee who by now also starting to contemplate the very nature of such a large portal into this subterranean world. 'Maybe we can escape back through it?' quipped Jacob as he maneuvered over to some loose rocks near his feet. 'Stand back Shawnee I'm gonna try something' Then without fear of consequence Jacob threw a baseball sized rock into the upside down swirling red mass! In return crackling hot sparks violently exploded back downwards at the moment of impact. Both Jacob and Shawnee were forced to quickly cover their watching faces as angry hissing little droplets of red light rapidly rained down upon them both. A swift look upwards after the shower of sparks retreated revealed a cracking motion in the surface violently spreading outwards to all directions. Then just as it reached the borders of containment would suddenly begin retreating back to its point of origin. Exactly where the rock had struck it and fell back to them.

Believing it was now safe to continue their study, both Jacob and Shawnee watched on as the last of the retreating cracks had almost completely dissipated. Then just the very last visible crack reached the point of origin a loud bang accompanied a single sparkle that fizzed its way down their feet then finally flamed out! At first Jacob was quite impressed by the light show just witnessed until Shawnee explained the finishing bang was undoubtedly loud enough to resonate way back down the tunnel for quite a distance! Perhaps even far enough to reveal their presence to all nearby inhabitants, whether human or non human. Protesting the validity of his brash actions Jacob explained he had to try and that if whatever lives below is now aware of their presence. Well it only saves a whole lot of wasted time in deciding their ultimate fate considering it appears they are officially now trapped within the hill. Suddenly without warning Shawnee now grabbed at Jacobs mouth while whispering 'Look' As Jacob also now became alerted to the constant movement of light bouncing off the walls in all directions. It appeared Shawnee was correct, Jacob had undoubtedly given their position away and now they were seemingly destined to pay the horrible price for such stupidity! Closer and closer advanced the approaching shadows to where Jacob and Shawnee were huddled down at the far wall in acceptance of a certain fate. Instinctively by now both had closed their eyes to mask the arrival of horror at their quivering huddled bodies.

'Are you two crazy? Whatever you're doing up here stop it now or you will get us all caught!' echoed the concerned words of an arriving Tom. Dumbfounded he just starred on in confusion at the two bodies trying in vain to hide from his arrival. 'Oh thank God' shrieked a relieved Shawnee after instantly recognizing her old friend's voice. A short explanation later revealed it would take a whole lot more than a rock if they were going to somehow escape through this upside down portal. Sizing up the dimensions, eventually Jacob declared this to be the place where the buffalo must have entered the hill's underworld. To which both a confused Tom and Shawnee responded 'Buffalo?' Surprised by the fact he was the only one to have witnessed it Jacob went onto explain the near collision between himself and the buffalo as he first exited the small chamber landed in. Thinking back to the moments of her own ungracious landing. Shawnee recalled how she had also heard a thundering noise as now she remembered closing her eyes in terror as it moved closer and closer towards where she was trapped! Recalling the moment, Tom also confessed to hearing the same thundering noise flowing through the tunnel not long after his arrival. Although at that time he was probably more concerned about the presence of squirming little maggots on his hand!. Seems this marauding buffalo was indeed a reality and as they all looked up it was agreed this was positively the best sized entrance for such a large animal to enter into the confines of the hill, but why?

'Of course' Shawnee excitedly exclaimed 'This also must have been a mass grave. Probably the one where all the dead and mutilated bodies of the battle to save the village all those decades ago were laid to rest, that's why it's so big!' Impressed by Shawnee's astute detective work Tom also now remembered this historic tidbit as he too raised his voice in enthusiasm 'Yes of course, that's it! That's gotta be it' Abruptly now came a concerned "shoosh" from a worried Jacob reminding them they were going nowhere fast! In fact if they were going anywhere it would have to be downwards. Otherwise they would have to accept their twisted fate while waiting to be discovered upon the return of the Vampires when they next left the hill to feed. Accepting the validity of Jacob's reasoning the two vocal detectives abruptly lowered their tone of voice then asked the question 'Who's going first?' After some consideration that is was his fault they were here Jacob offered his services to be the lead first up, but only on a rotating basis! Although before any cautious steps were taken to a destination unknown Jacob asked Shawnee 'Can I have some blessed protection please, I think it's time' Nodding her full agreement Shawnee was quick to reply 'You're not wrong' as now from her side she unclipped the old canteen full of tribal blessed holy water. 'Quick hold out your hunting knives so I can poor some safety onto them' With all knives now splashed upon by the holy water the reluctant trio began their descent.

Every tentative step forwards saw the entire group's heart collectively skip a beat as ever present flickering light reminded them to always be wary of what comes out of the shadows in such a place! It was noted every approaching doorway was a possible ambush just waiting to take place. In response they only allowed each other to hastily pass a doorway one at a time in case one of the group was taken by the waiting darkness. All available self-preservation precautions were undertaken, but this was a journey into the unknown. They each accepted the harsh reality of the situation was if they were noticed by the resident Vampires they would either have to stand their ground and fight to the death or hastily retreat into one of the many small side chambers. At that point they would then have no choice but to consider them-selves comprehensively trapped! The slow spiraling tunnel ahead gave no real indication of the waiting ground level's distance below? After half an hour of what felt like a crawl Jacob asked 'Do you think we are anywhere near the bottom?' at which came a chuckled reply 'Are you kidding! We would be lucky to even be a quarter of the way down' Out front and felling quite vulnerable a noticeably stressed out, Jacob came to sudden halt 'I can't stand it anymore! Someone else has to be the lead' Sensing scattered emotions Shawnee bravely now offered up her services to be the front runner to their destiny, be it good or bad? With a trembling hand reaching out Shawnee was now the first indication of any impending trouble. As the frontrunner she would have to make the first call whether to stand and fight or retreat? Nagging thoughts that they were actually purposely heading towards an unknown evil constantly plagued all their thoughts.

Ten minutes into Shawnee's front running stint the sudden motion of her ducking head startled both Tom and Jacob as instinctively they followed her movement to get down low without even identifying the threat? Seconds later, much to their apprehension directly over their heads a screeching flock of bats passed by. Loudly buzzing past as if to purposely remind them of the larger human version waiting at the bottom for them. 'Was that them, was that the Vampires?' Tom questioned to anyone willing to answer. In return only unsettling silence remained as they each contemplated 'Maybe it was? Maybe they are behind us now, preparing to attack!' Shawnee and Jacob knew Tom's question was relevant but chose not to answer for the mere fact that having to worry about what was behind them as well as in front was just too much horror to endure! Some things are better left unanswered it seems, especially when one's mortality at stake! However the seed had been planted in a paranoid Tom's mind as nervously his head twitched from front view to the rear view in rapid repeating motions. These persistent and erratic movements only added to the tension all were currently experiencing. Sooner or later something would have to give! As it turns out it was Tom's threshold for the silent hysteria of the situation as next much to Shawnee and Jacob's total surprise he ran past them loudly declaring 'I can't stand it anymore' Now stationary Shawnee and Jacob watched on as Tom's continuously running silhouette disappeared around the slowly winding wall of the tunnel to meet his destiny.

'What are we gonna do now?' asked Jacob to an obviously stunned Shawnee currently contemplating the unexpected change of plans and the immediate ramifications of it all. Who in their right mind purposely runs towards a lair of blood thirsty Vampires she silently pondered. You would have to be officially crazy, destined for the loony bin she thought to herself. But that is exactly what had just happened and now the remaining two would have to make a decision to quickly follow or play it safe while holding further back. 'We need to stick together!' came the cry from Shawnee who was now also running the gauntlet to a destiny unknown! Thoroughly confused by it all Jacob suddenly realized he better keep up or be left behind. Exhilarated, Shawnee found the experience surprisingly enlightening as she excitedly threw all caution away with reckless abandon. Trailing on not too far behind Jacob was not so brash, reminding himself that he must be certifiably crazy while he encountered each new flickering light in this quest to keep up with a surprisingly fast Shawnee. Upon increasing his speed to a full sprint Jacob could gratefully see the bouncing shadows of Shawnee's running body up ahead. Then just he felt sure of catching up with her again came the sound of migrating bats, except this time it was from behind! The unrelenting thought that these approaching furry little winged creatures may just turn out to be the Vampires was enough of a threat to force a defensively thinking Jacob to swiftly hit the ground hard. There he would silently lay in the hope they may just fly over him

All too soon the busy sounds of numerous fluttering wings passed by his deep in the dirt face. Then came a relieved conclusion the imagined threat was only what it had appeared to be, a flock of bats on the move. Next moment much to his angst Jacob realized Shawnee was well and truly out of sight and that he was now very much alone. In a slightly selfish example of self-preservation Jacob allowed himself a few seconds to contemplate that least his fate would surely be the last to be decided. Considering he now trailed the other two whom undoubtedly were well ahead of him and surely certain to come across any Vampires well and truly before him. Gratefully the only thing making the current situation slightly more bearable was that at least he would no longer have to worry about was lurked behind. His thoughts would solely concentrate once again on what lays ahead, somewhere in the darkness below? One long hour later a solitary Jacob was to exasperatingly find himself in yet another dilemma as he observed the unwanted sight of the main tunnel ahead separating into three separate tunnels. All of which gave no indication to where their final destination may reside? Jacob's previous consideration of being the last in line to an unknown destiny was now abandoned as the disturbing reality of an uncertain destiny was regretfully once more considered random choice! Discouragingly any one of these three tunnels may lead to the waiting lair of the bloodthirsty creatures of the night. There was just no way of knowing which one to choose? And to think his comrades may be even be outside by now if they were lucky enough to have picked the correct tunnel!

Exposed and alone a somber minded Jacob tried to best reason within himself for the correct choice of which waiting tunnel to choose? Annoyingly though he could not easily come up with any valid rational for such a critical choice. In the end for no reason other than the simple fact he was right handed he veered off in the direction of the waiting tunnel on the right side. Having ventured only five or so footsteps inside the new tunnel Jacob stopped, attempting to reconsider his child like choice. Nearby the sounds of migrating bats could be heard coming from either the middle or maybe the left tunnel as well? Jacob's childlike selection was soon considered best option as he pushed on without delay into the darkness ahead! Who knows? Maybe an exit to the real world is just up ahead he reassured him-self as thankfully the flying mass of bats now disappeared. Ahead the sight of a dimly flickering torch light a little further down the tunnel was considered further confirmation of a correct choice. Cautiously he now once again began to pick the pace up in the hope of catching up with either Tom or Shawnee.

Elsewhere, also separated from each other Tom and Shawnee had both chosen their tunnel based on sheer luck and nothing more. After all how could anyone make wise assumptions as to whether one dark tunnel is specifically safer than the next dark tunnel? All choices made at the three dividing tunnels were arrived at purely from luck or gut instinct, if such a thing truly exists. Lost and insecure the various footsteps of each lone traveler echoed along their chosen tunnel. To make things worse, each of their tunnels would quickly reveal even more of these mysterious single room chambers. Having passed by a number of these small chamber rooms a curious Jacob decided it was time to investigate just a little further. He had to know, what was the reason for these mysterious rooms? Were they baron like the similar examples up above or were they being used for perhaps other more sinister purposes? The only one certain way to reveal the worrying truth was to simply stop at the next example and do some investigating. Fortunately the next chamber room in view was conveniently positioned close to a brightly burning tunnel torchlight that was soon in Jacob's possession. Armed with adequate light and some inspired courage Jacob cautiously approached the waiting entranceway. Guided solely by gut instinct, Jacob truly didn't expect to see a Vampire or anything of that nature. Yet here he was standing still, slightly hesitant to enter what was most likely an empty room.

Slowly Jacob etched closer and closer to the undisclosed realm beyond the waiting doorway as his rapid breathing begin to increase with every step. The overwhelming paranoia of the moment was growing with every second. So much so that in the end in an attempt to put and finish to this burdened exploration Jacob decided to just run into the room, come what may? One big breath and five long strides later he found himself defensively swinging about the burning torch towards what were just plain dugout earthen walls! Exactly the same as observed in the previous rooms above. Troublingly though came an unexpected cold chill running up Jacob's spine as next he decided to raise the flickering torch upwards. Where to his absolute bewilderment he viewed what must have been close to one thousand eerie red eyes embedded into the wall open up at the same time! The utter shock of such a bizarre sight would see him instantly stagger backwards then trip up while simultaneously losing grip on the torchlight as next he hit the ground. Which to make things worse was covered by millions of wriggling red maggots as Jacob soon discovered. The expelled moisture of these little flesh eating creatures and the combined action of dropping the torch was enough to fully extinguish the burning flame within only seconds! Leaving a sprawled out Jacob lying on his back looking directly upwards at the barely visible peering red eyes honing in on him! A situation when combined with the movement of the squashed red maggots underneath him was now simply too much for Jacob to bear! Frantic hands pushed about in red slushy goo while forcing himself upwards to escape. All thoughts of discretion were soon disbanded as he screamed in disbelief while swiftly exiting this eerie chamber of red eyes!

The waiting tunnel outside was almost pitch black as regularly a distraught Jacob found himself bouncing off the walls in a state of frenzy. After regaining some lost composure a still running Jacob noticed the tunnel lighten up ahead just a little. He gratefully came to the realization he could now probably see what lay behind? Perhaps even establish if he was being followed by the red eyed creatures recently disturbed by his uninvited expedition into the privacy of their dark realm. Breathing heavily but feeling confident enough he was not being pursued Jacob came to a complete stop. Reluctantly he then came to the worrying conclusion his recent actions had revealed his presence within the tunnel. He was surely no longer a well kept secret! His immediate choice was simple, retreat to territory previously covered and accept his ultimate fate or continue down the path forwards to what was still a mystery, perhaps even an exit? Without the need for too much convincing both options were weighed up in the favor of proceeding forwards. Besides the thought of going back past the room full of red eyed ceiling creatures and hungry maggots did not appeal at all! Who knows they may still be further back in the tunnel and coming this way? No only one way, forwards! More off set entranceways most probably containing more of the red eyes became visible as the journey edged forwards. Jacob decided to start passing by each doorway on the opposite side of the tunnel and do so as hurriedly as traveling by stealth would allow. A further half an hour of nervous travel Jacob finally discovered what lay ahead, a massive black abyss that was without doubt ... the Vampires home cavern!

The Cavern

Attempting to face up to his deepest of fears, Jacob found himself reluctantly engrossed by the dancing mass of ever changing shadows at the tunnel's fast approaching end. Mystified by the view, Jacob was soon in awe at the size of the vast centralized rocky cavern situated in the hills lower depths. Feeling somewhat inept he found himself endeavoring to establish the distance to the the opposing wall of this mammoth internal abyss. Hesitantly edging forwards towards the open end of the tunnel Jacob decided to drop down low to the safety of the dusty floor then slowly crawl up to the edge then of the waiting drop off. From there he would try and establish if there was a feasible way down to a viable form of exit? With a blessed hunting knife now in the grasp of one of his shaky hands a wary Jacob quickly surmised the complex myriad of entrances and exits on view made this the perfect place for a lair of the undead! Unwanted bursts of uneasy breathing began to intensify with every small shuffle forwards. Once again that horrible human trait of gut instinct was now beckoning upon him that this was no place for the living! He was certain if anyone else had passed this way before they would probably be well and truly damned at the hands of the bloodthirsty Vampires by now! Sensing the presence of danger Jacob stopped again, allowing himself a one second option to initiate hasty a retreat. However the comforting thoughts of finding his two companions soon forced him to relinquish any such cowardly notions. At this point it was concluded there were simply no other viable options other than proceed forwards then somehow descend down into the waiting open space ahead.

Closer to the edge a nervous Jacob watched various shadows from below rapidly climb upwards to the tunnel's ceiling. There was no doubting the influx of activity below as next even more shadows began a dancing ritual across a huge ceiling gracefully exhibiting a vast array of different sized stalactites. Every one of these mammoth ancient rock formations majestically dropped down towards the floor. As if to slowly reach down and grab any and all unsuspecting victims then swiftly whisk them back up to the ceiling to be trapped within a cocoon of rock forever more! The highly unusual sight on view left a terrified Jacob drawing upon every ounce of his internal resolve to go that extra two feet and reach the waiting view to the world below. Sensing absolute danger Jacob fully understood the ramifications of what was coming up next! He was all too well aware to ever leave this underworld alive he would have to face up to his biggest challenge ever, the inhabitant of the cavern below. Finally Jacob's undesired destination was obtained as reluctantly now his slowly opening eyes began to study everything below. Further expanded on his vision cautiously traveled past the slow reach of the stalactites to what was the curious sight of a bunch of hovering bats. Alarmingly they all possessed the very same red glowing eyes as previously seen in the small room running off the tunnel in the darkness behind. The thought of all those eyes looking down on him back in that pitch black room instantly sent shivers down his spine! Watching on he noticed a singular screeching bat join the hovering bat pack, which in return were also starting to loudly screech as well. Unrelenting these ever increasing screeching sounds soon became almost unbearable to tolerate.

Jacob also noted that once the solitary bat eventually reached the waiting colony above they now all began to rotate as one huge swarm then break off to one of the many waiting cave tunnels. Most probably to inhabit one of the many vacant rooms in wait for them. As the colony's mass rotation grew faster and faster the fever pitch of the screeching bats increased to such a level that Jacob found it virtually impossible not to scream out in horror to all Vampires, bats and whatever else lay waiting for him! Eventually the last of the screeching bats followed the mobile colony into their chosen tunnel and disappeared from sight. A relieved Jacob allowed himself a large gasp of air in the realization that he had totally forgotten to breathe for what was perhaps at least a minute now? Panting and reluctantly ready to continue the visual exploration of all abound Jacob's eyes then discovered the one thing he had dreaded most, a real live Vampire! Worse still, this was not just any Vampire. This was apparently the original Vampire from the plains all those centuries ago! Then much to Jacob's unsuspecting horror it suddenly rose up from a seated position to latch onto the neck the sacrificial buffalo forcefully held in place by at least four or so Vampire Indian braves. It now occurred to Jacob this was most probably the buck that had just missed crashing into him when he first arrived! Mortified by the sight but forced to watch on in sheer fascination Jacob witnessed the weakened animal's final demise as slowly the lack of blood plus gravity combined to force it down on weakened knees.

As the once fiercely proud dying beast of the Great Plains bellowed out one final holler for life the surrounding Vampire braves commenced an ancient tribal chant in celebration of this successful accomplishment. They had apparently succeeded in their mission, which was to feed the master. Having expertly drained all available bison blood the noticeably larger Master Vampire suddenly unleashed a primordial scream of approval. It then nonchalantly returned to the previous seated position, seemingly to start the next phase of the sacrificial ritual. Watching on, a silent Jacob soon discovered this was to be the birth of another blood sucking creature of the night via the master Vampires stretching mouth. Once free from it's masters mouth a solitary bat enthusiastically fluttered newly formed wings upwards to hover above the master in wait for all new members of the latest colony to follow. It was just at this moment that it suddenly dawned on Jacob. This whole process was all in preparation of a much bigger event, possibly an onslaught of the outside world below and then beyond? Jacob rationalized this would occur once the Master Vampire had created enough of these evil bats destined to grow to a size similar to their Master. It now dawned on Jacob there must be many thousands of these creatures incubating throughout the numerous tunnels of this well hidden underworld. Glancing around to the many tunnel entrances on display a grateful Jacob suddenly identified an equally horrified Shawnee trying to signal Tom, who was close by in a tunnel just up from her position in this vast cavern.

Frustrated by the inability to make his presence known a hapless Jacob continued his silent vigil on the world below. Watching on, Jacob observed the syphoned carcass of the buffalo unceremoniously thrown down into a massive pit containing the vile smelling rotting remains of all its predecessors. Upon impact the pungent odors of death wafted up, prompting the nearby Indians to once again undertake a chant of apparent victory over the beast. Seconds later Jacob's searching eyes were alerted to small sharp flash of torchlight originating from the last observed direction of Shawnee. Finally some form of mental relief, his solitude was over! Jacob was finally in visual contact with his fellow travelers! Even though positioned in a different tunnel Jacob would now experience much needed camaraderie by the sight of nearby old friends initiating contact. A deep breath of momentary relief was a small prize a grateful Jacob allowed himself as next he tried to comprehend Shawnee's follow up hand signals sent to a close by Tom. It soon became obvious to Jacob that Shawnee was going to attempt to reach Tom via shimmying along a small frail ledge tightly wrapping its way around the caverns rugged high walls. It was undoubtedly a risky move but it was at least something positive. Shawnee knew if they could somehow manage to all reunite then a strategic plan to get out of this place could possibly be acted upon. Seeking a viable solution to his own exit from the tunnel Jacob edged out further over the interior cliff face only to have a small section break off underneath him.

His heart instantly skipped a beat as echoed sounds of descending crumbled rock immediately became the main focus of all creatures below, alive or dead. Jacob was quick to retreat and could only hope the precariously exposed Shawnee would go unnoticed as she nervously leant back to the shadowed curvature of the undulating wall behind. Daring not to breathe she instantly froze in case any movement from her chest was detected by the now alerted Indian Vampire Braves looking up to determine the source behind the small rock fall. With face firmly planted flat to the ground Jacob quietly cursed himself for such stupidity. Daring not to move a single inch Jacob worryingly found himself burdened with the uneasy sensation of being watched. Frustrated, he was eventually left with no other viable option than to look up and extinguish all these irksome feelings. Compelled to know his fate, ever so slowly Jacob built up the courage to finally pry open his eyes to thankfully discover he was apparently still alone **.** Feeling slightly more at ease with the situation at hand he once more edged forwards to the waiting drop off. Only to then watch on in terrifying horror as a pale white Indian Vampire brave rose up eye level to his position, only one foot away from his petrified face! Overcome with instant unimaginable fear and gasping for air a comprehensively startled Jacob instantly set about mortal self preservation! Unexpectedly defiant in his actions a courageous Jacob swiftly wielded the blessed hunting knife in his hand across the throat of the unsuspecting Vampire Brave.

With eyes firmly locked on each other a mortified Jacob witnessed the dark crimson red pupils of the shocked brave begin to drain off to a white milky gradient. One second, later flickering spurts of radiated light began to exit the fresh wound at regular intervals. Suffering the aftermath of the blessed knife's blade the fatally injured Vampire Brave recoiled backwards to forcefully strike a number of nearby stalactites that were soon plummeting downwards. Shocked by the successful results of his reflex actions Jacob observed the remaining braves below react to the falling stalactites capitulating all around them! In every direction broken shards of newly splintered rock violently struck the ground then exploded outwards upon dusty impact! Uncertain of the situation above the surprised Vampire Braves quickly reacted by surging upwards to the side of their beloved master in an attempt to shield off any further falling debris. Instant chaos reigned supreme as above the rebounding out of control body of the dying Vampire Brave continued a haphazard course of destruction! A wayward course that for one heart stopping moment seemed destined to collide with an exposed Shawnee. Gratefully just before the moment of impact a rock thrown by the nearby Tom influenced the aggrieved creature's flight path to abruptly change course as now it attempted to seek retribution. However the ailing Vampire was significantly weakening with every passing second and the opportunity to navigate it's once strong proud body was thoroughly lost as once again it violently impacted another close by stalactite!

Suffering from the mounting consequences of numerous collisions a dazed and defeated Vampire Brave then lost the ability to maintain any form of controlled flight. Next moment the hapless Vampire began to descend faster and faster downwards in a spiral aiming directly towards a large vertical rock formation below. A formation culminating into sharp spear shaped point, as if just purposely waiting for a victim! With significantly more light brightly emanating from the massive wound that had opened up significantly more after so many violent impacts with stalactites. Well out of control, the Vampire Brave unleashed one hideous final scream in denial of its impending fate only one second away at this point! Nearby all remaining Vampire Braves tried desperately to assist their fallen comrade only to discover they would be too late! In confirmation of death, next moment came a huge burst of multi colored radiant light exploding outward's to all directions from the impaled broken body of the once mighty defeated warrior of the night. The following split second of confusion allowed for a quick thinking Shawnee to hastily make her way towards Tom's outstretched waiting hands and to soon be lifted to a reassuring perception of safety. Strategically positioned to within reach of Tom's waiting hands an observant Shawnee fortuitously noticed a couple of close by stalactites were well suited to be used as weapons. Moments later with the help of slightly confused Tom she was leaning out and breaking off these perfectly spear shaped rock formations. Finally armed with two jagged rock spears, a smiling Shawnee gratefully accepted Tom's waiting assistance to enter his tunnel.

Safely positioned inside the clandestine cover of their tunnel the first thing Shawnee chose to do was to douse some blessed holy water from her canteen over the tip of each rock spear. Attempting to enhance their already deadly power when the time came to use them. Watching on as the remaining braves abruptly took to flight it became blatantly obvious they were all now seeking bloodthirsty revenge for the loss of their fallen comrade! Going by the seething anger of their faces it would be highly unlikely this inspired vendetta would allow for any form of mercy. With their previously hidden presence revealed the trio would be no longer able to freely move about this maze of tunnels in a secretive manor as before. Exposed and scared they each knew revenge at the hands of the Vampire Braves would be cruel painful enough that they would soon be pleading for a quick death. After all, in their previous life the Indian braves were not only skilled hunters but also extremely skilled torturers. Worryingly these braves had not had been given the opportunity to practice their deadly art for many decades now! If captured the trio of travelers would soon discover this place to be an unforgiving hell on earth! Once in the air the braves separated into two groups of two with each group thoroughly surveying each of the many tunnel entrances for any signs of unwanted intruders. It would only be a matter a time before eventually the scouting braves discovered either Jacob or Tom and Shawnee. A plan of action had to be made and it to be made now!

'What are we going to do?' a puzzled and frightened Tom worriedly asked Shawnee who was curiously studying to the rock spear in her possession with a sly grin on her face 'Well we can run for our lives and live a little longer, but I think they will find us sooner than later and I don't think it will be too pleasant when they do!' Surprised by her calm persona Tom cautiously inquired 'Well what do the hell do we do then?' Defiantly holding a knife and spear up over her head a rebellious Shawnee confidently replied 'We must fight for our lives! We have one distinct advantage at this point and that it they don't know which tunnel we are in' Noticeably unconvinced Tom wondered how this was going to defeat the soon to be arriving Vampire Braves? 'How is this advantage going to overpower them Shawnee, how?' Her reflexed reply was the last thing a surprised Tom ever expected to hear. 'We charge straight at them and plunge our spears into their bodies and if that doesn't kill them well then we start to use our knives just like Jacob did!' Sensing how frail his morality really was a worried Tom found himself speechless upon hearing Shawnee's unprecedented plan of action, surely this was total madness! Dumbfounded, Tom discovered that before any further protests could be submitted Shawnee was returning to the tunnels edge in search for the other participants of the looming battle. Turning back towards a terrified Tom Shawnee whispered the dreaded command of 'They're coming! Get back into the tunnel we are going to charge them' In total disbelief at what he was actually hearing a none too keen Tom reluctantly retreated further back into the darkness alongside the ready to fight for her life Shawnee. Rolling his eyes in utter disbelief Tom now muttered to himself "I can't believe this is happening"

All thoughts of becoming a great writer were now inconsequential as undeniable fear overtook Tom's quivering body and began to alter all thoughts. He secretly now found himself considering a solitary return to the darkness of the tunnel maze behind. Without saying so he considered it to be a possibly better alternative to the current life or death situation Shawnee was apparently embracing without fear? Tom stepped back one yard then another, then he slowly turned to make a silent choice. Run or stay and fight alongside the battle ready Indian girl just in front of him? Fast breathing was now bordering on hypoventilation as Tom unashamedly turned towards the darkness as what appeared to be a final decision of retreat! Although next, much to his great horror a mortified Tom would witness the indescribable as a moving curtain wall of Black Widow spiders suddenly came to view out from the tunnel's darkness. 'Shawnee look, Shawnee look!' Seeking not to divert her attention away from the impending arrival of the Vampire Warrior Braves Shawnee could only reply 'What now? You do realize we are about to be in a fight to the death' Desperately trying to get some form of rhythm back into his breathing a panicked Tom was finally able to rebuff Shawnee's harsh words 'I'm sorry if this is inconvenient? But there is a wall of spiders closing in on us from behind!' exclaimed the frantic sounding Tom having returned to his uneven breathing pattern. 'What the!' was the only thing Shawnee could think to say as she now acknowledged Tom's valid concerns. They were now officially trapped without any plausible escape plan as far as the trembling Tom was concerned. Steadfast, Shawnee chose to stay strong as again words of action echoed up the tunnel 'We stick to the plan .... ok!'

Truth was by now Shawnee was perhaps equally worried but had decided to mask any doubts for the fear of both of them losing it and succumbing to mind numbing ordeal both were reluctantly experiencing. Attempting to overcome all apprehension the upfront positioned Shawnee she would repeat over and over 'Get ready to charge, get ready to charge!' Only a foot or so behind her an unsure Tom wondered if these constantly repeated words were purposely aimed at him or if it was actually Shawnee's way of dealing with it all? The one certain thing Tom did know was that the gruesome wall of spiders at his rear had not slowed, if anything they seemed to be increasing their 'shuffle' towards the two humans! To his disbelieving surprise Tom oddly found himself somehow hoping for the Vampire's hasty arrival so they could finally put to end to this nightmare. This was a macabre situation that as a horror writer even Tom would never had possessed the imagination to produce. Such a traumatic life threatening ordeal challenging every survival instinct from the recesses of his mind was not yet available to his 'writers vocabulary' Ironically as he now accepted his true fate was upon him he finally understood the ultimate purpose of his friend Jacob's challenge. Shawnee's commitment to the project was neither lost on him as well as suddenly he blurted out the slightly guilty sounding words of 'Thanks for opening my eyes to the real world, I truly am sorry it has ended this way' However in obvious disapproval of his remorseful tones Shawnee loudly declared the 'The true fight has yet to begin, get ready, get ready now Tom!' And with that two vengeful Vampire Braves menacingly appeared at the tunnels entrance some fifty feet or so away from the young duos position.

The fight for their survival was all too soon upon them as Shawnee challenged a disbelieving Tom to join her in this epic struggle to see another dawn from the town's main street once more. 'Remember thrust the spear deep into the chest!' The suddenly came a brisk unexpected slap across Tom's face to restore him back to the reality of the life and death situation about to be played out. 'Ok let's go!' Leading the way Shawnee began a series of rapid strides forward, all solely aimed at just one thing. Plunging her newly acquired rock spear that was blessed by Grandma Shee's holy water into the edging forwards Vampire Brave. With a time frame of only about one second came the reassuring words from just behind 'I am with you Shawnee, I am with you!' echoing vibrantly past the charging Shawnee's ears. It was a back on track Tom who had also decided a fight to the death would be the most viable option for either a glorious victory or at the very worst, an honorable death! To Shawnee's great surprise he was soon level with her fast striding motion then amazingly declared 'The one on the right is mine! A charging Shawnee gratefully felt her courage maximize to its upper peaks as ever so tightly she grasped the spear in her right hand. Ahead the two astonished warrior braves tried hard to comprehend how two spirits born of the human world could issue such a brash challenge? After all, in their many many decades of existence they had never been confronted with such a blatant disregard for their obvious superiority. A short series of surprised glances to each other by the slightly confused warrior braves soon confirmed in the attacking Shawnee's mind there might just be a slim chance to survive this sheer act of total madness. Because lets face it, no one can ever charge a physically superior creature of the night and expect victory, can they?

The approaching moment of collision had now become reality as with only about ten or so feet to go Tom screamed out 'To The Death!' as a demonstration of solidarity during these final moments of the charge. Shawnee felt assured her fast running motion was completely in zinc with Tom's final war cry as both travelers lunged forwards into the air with both hands wrapped tightly around blessed spears! Standing defiant, yet remaining somewhat confused by this highly unusual series of events the recipients of the intended charge stayed firm. After all, what serious form of pain could these mere young humans possibly inflict them? Although to their great surprise they were soon to discover that even unabated evil sometimes has to face up to strange realities! Simultaneously both Vampire Braves now felt the sharp incision of a blessed stone spear strategically ripping deeply into their blemished souls. For the shocked braves not only was the powerful impact of the travelers onto their body amazingly forceful but also the unexpected precision of their combined weapons strike! To their total disbelief each Vampire Brave found themself not only suffering a seriously debilitating wound but also the addition of these weaker entities clutching tightly onto to their startled backward moving bodies. The inconceivable had just occurred, the two Vampire Braves were being thrust backwards into the vast abyss of the cavern behind. To make things worse it was only just now the seriousness of the inflicted injuries dawned upon them both. Crippling pain in the mid riff area would soon see the weakening warriors flinch in previously unknown agony as next the flashing steel of a blessed knife sliced deeply into their throats.

It was only at this point that these two critically wounded Vampire Braves attempted any form of cohesive retaliation! However it was to be all too late as now the final fatal cut had been executed. Amazingly the precise nature of the clever human's unforeseen attack had resulted in the inability of the Vampire's to wield their sharp elongated fangs. They were frustratingly unable to destroy these unwanted human parasites as their ever weakening bodies succumbed to the crippling injuries sustained. Intolerable, the excruciating pain level then increased to coincide with a brightly radiated light emitting out from not only a spear wound to the chest area but also the sliced open pulsating neck region! Sensing the battle of survival was reaching a foregone conclusion the victorious Shawnee and Tom again plunged their hunting knives into their dumbfounded foes. Except this time it was to secure a better grip on what was fast becoming a volatile ride of unknown fate? Their piggy backing bodies would now find themselves clinging on for life as continuously their dying hosts unceremoniously impacted all nearby walls while attempting to rid themselves of these deadly human parasites! Suffering from increasing levels of unbearable pain the two Indian Vampire Braves were undoubtedly on the verge of certain death and now unable to successfully navigate the vast caverns rocky landscape. The powerful light radiating out from their wounds grew so strong that even both Tom and Shawnee would also experience temporary blindness due to the bright intensity!

Bellowed words of 'Hang on tight' emanated from Shawnee who was by now more concerned with the landing rather than the dying host she desperately clung onto! Yes this was gonna be a hard landing as suddenly a rapid dropping motion overcame all thoughts lost in the moment. The dying Vampire Braves were virtually in a free-fall and a rough landing waited for the travelers below. Daring to change his fate a fast thinking Tom found himself twisting at the defeated warriors head as a make shift form of steering away the inevitable impact with the caverns rugged ground below. Round and round the curiously responding Vampire Braves body swirled in all directions as what was a plummeting vertical fall to the ground below transpired into a more slightly leveled off flight path. Close by in a state of confusion Shawnee observed the noticeable change of descent for Tom's ride as now she too tried to 'steer' her way to a softer landing. Just as Tom was now experiencing Shawnee also found the destination of her imminent impact on the caverns lower regions blissfully stalled for just a moment or two longer! But to exactly where neither could predict, one thing was certain, there would be just a little extra time to survey the landscape below and around them. Both Shawnee and Tom soon noted at ground there was a myriad of these tunnel entrances to God knows where? Flashing past the swirling views on offer they soon noticed the presence of three more Vampire Braves taking to flight in the caverns large interior space.

One puzzling element to the plethora of action currently on display was the ancient looking master bat like Vampire seemed completely impervious to all around. Without so much as a blink the creature continued the ritual of giving birth to yet another suckling, except without any of the associated ceremony. Tom and Shawnee were quickly aware of the next imminent threat as now the three airborne braves prepared to target in on them! Again a series of desperate twists and turns to the falling almost dead Vampire heads were now commenced. All done in the hope of altering a predictable course being honed in by the soon to be swarming nightworld brave's obviously hell bent on torturous revenge! This was a perilous situation with no possible positive outcome perceived by either of the seemingly out of luck humans. It appeared there was just no feasible way of escaping a terrifying array of deadly choices? Which included whether to jump to your certain demise or simply wait to be savagely taken by a soon to be arriving Vampire Brave seeking only brutal retribution? With what appeared to still be at least one hundred feet remaining, jumping for your life was presumably out of the question! Meaning the only viable option left was a one sided aerial confrontation as the remaining option of chosen fate. As the flurry of contradicting landscapes swirled around them Shawnee now heard Tom's last words of regret. 'We nearly made it Shawnee, we nearly did it!' With looming Vampire Brave's about to converge on her sadly there would be no time to acknowledge Tom's final message. With only precious seconds from an unimagined end to a life remaining, silent farewells were made to fondly remembered family and friends as certain death beckoned.

As the out of luck duo waited for their unavoidable fate suddenly exploding out into the vast cavern area above came the welcomed words of 'Over here, Hey you ugly bastards, over here' Ringing out from the tunnel entrance of Jacob. Who as a last resort had chosen to give away his high up hidden position in a final attempt to gain the attention of the ready for revenge Vampire Braves maneuvering in for a confirmed kill. Although nothing was guaranteed a newly inspired Shawnee screamed out to Tom 'Rip it's head off if you can! Rip its head off Tom!' Meanwhile the niggling chant from the positioned above Jacob had left the flying attackers stalled in their actions. Indecisive, the three Vampire Warrior Braves had surprisingly hesitated! Choosing whether to take the easy kill or to finish off what was worryingly another appearance of these unwanted human invaders into their once well-hidden underworld realm. Sensing momentary delay of the impending attack Tom now took Shawnee's sage advice and began a series of savage twists to the tormented foe he rode upon! Staggered bursts of light strikingly exited out from the ever-widening neck wound of a blood lusting beast unable to offer up any resistance. Unsure if it was the motion of the twisting actions or the extremely bright powerful bursts of light. Shawnee and Tom soon found their haphazard flight path leveling off to a more predictable crash landing that maybe just maybe they could survive? One thing was for sure! The answer to this question was only a matter of short seconds away as nearby the Vampires began to rise up towards the swiftly retreating Jacob who he had done the absolute best he could considering the circumstances!

'Hold on its gonna be a rough landing' came the words from a crash ready Shawnee who would let go at the moment of impact, hoping for a survivable outcome if all worked out as best as a crash landing can? Tom's strategy was basically the same, hit and roll. Which was sound enough theory, providing the upcoming crash didn't impact directly into the cavern's waiting walls? Only an ounce of good luck or twisted fate would be the ultimate decider at this point. But they were in with a slim chance now that the Vampire's attention had fortuitously been averted upwards by a courageous Jacob currently attempting to escape from the soon to be arriving Vampire hunters! Closer and closer, round and round spun the headless bodies of the out of control host Vampires descended. Hanging on for dear their life human passengers leant to the left or to the right in hope of influencing the crash course. Adrenalin pulsed throughout the veins of these oversized jockey's who had miraculously just missed each other as their macabre vessels of flight swerved haphazardly to nearly every part of the cavern's huge circumference. All too soon the moment of possibly doomed impact arrived! Yet somehow thankfully both jockey's had actually steered their rides into a mostly flattened out centralized opening. Making for a smoother than imagined arrival that was without doubt going to be a rough landing, but at least predictable enough for Tom and Shawnee to jump for their lives. Upon solid impact with the ground the sliding broken bodies of the surely dead Vampire hosts simultaneously headed towards the more unforgiving parts of the caverns ground level.

An eclectic array of jagged rocks combined with broken stone recently fallen from above the cavern's higher regions soon begin to viciously rip into the still rapidly shredded sliding bodies of the hapless Vampires. What remained of their torsos was now starting to radiate substantially more of the powerful light from within as more and more torn flesh was mercilessly stripped from their disintegrating bodies. While was this happening a tumbling Tom and Shawnee eventually slowed down enough to become aware of this strange new phenomena taking place. Within moments it would be impossible to observe the Vampires final demise due to the stifling amount of constant light beaming outwards from each corpse! With heads facing the cavern's outer walls due to the blinding light erupting from the now still corpses of dead Vampire's. The victorious travelers gratefully realized not only had they survived this unforeseen horrific ordeal but they had also somehow inflicted unprecedented defeat on these physically far superior foes! Better yet, although still separated, they could each detect the closest tunnel opening. Desperate to hide there was no time allowed for grateful reunions, just a quick escape to the nearest dark place would have to suffice for now! The ground underfoot began to vibrate in unison with the ongoing destruction of the soon to be extinct Vampire corpses. Perhaps due to the fact they were both about to simultaneously depart their unnatural presence on this earth? At this point even a blissfully ignorant Tom and a wise Shawnee could sense the current decay of the dead night warriors was definitely building to a crescendo of sorts. All indications were that it was going to be real big!

Desperately trying to the reach the sanctuary of their chosen tunnel entrances, both escapees were regularly thrown off balance by the ground below. This occurrence coincided with a series of thunderous jolts accompanied each dying burst of light radiating out of the dying braves. Violent pulsations of beaming lights so bright and powerful appeared to be reaching a final climax that began shaking the remnants of any remaining flesh to pieces. Including both of the decapitated Vampire heads. Helplessly trapped in their current positions, simultaneously Tom and Shawnee dived for the ground as next came an explosion of the likes never experienced by either Tom or Shawnee, most probably any other humans? Instinctively they covered up eyes and ears as the wave of a destructive detonation swept throughout the entire abyss of the cavern's shaking landscape. The pulsating blast not only affected all geographic features but also the three currently in flight Vampire Braves seeking to find a retreating Jacob who was hopefully by now not a victim of a tunnel cave in? Unseen by the ground level covered up humans a rippling wave of Vampire death exponentially expanded throughout the vast confines of the majestic cavern's interior. With the end result being three flying Vampires instantly stunned into an eerie slow motion descent that they were seemingly unable to control? As explosive lights slowly regressed inwards, both Shawnee and Tom allowed themselves a brief moment to view the aftermath of such an inexplicable event!

As the throbbing aftermath of the mystical event finally receded enough to allow for intrigued observation both travelers were confronted to see what appeared to be three unconscious Indian Vampire Braves. All somehow defying gravity as gently they hovered downwards in a combined motion reminiscent to a handful of feathers nonchalantly tossed out from a skyscraper's upper window on calm summer's day. Swaying back and forth then slightly up or slightly down, their gentle downwards motion was a mesmerizing sight for the duo silently watching on. Then without warning all contradicting moments of calmness abruptly returned to the harsh reality of the situation! As now that the master bat like Vampire awoke from the deep trance previously inhabiting its state of being. Angered this master beast was now fully wide awake and going by the terrifying growls of fury resonating outwards, it was none too happy. Without doubt it was now time to be safely situated deeply into one of the nearby tunnels, running for your life! Previously untapped natural navigational skills accompanied each of their remarkably timed escape into the darkness. Amazingly they both covered great distances without colliding into any of the chosen tunnel's walls. Diminishing sounds of escaping human footsteps could be heard venturing further and further into the unknown darkness ahead. Unrelenting expectations of revenge driven pursuers of the night reaffirmed the need to go faster and deeper into the waiting dark ahead of both of them.

ESCAPE

Deep panting breaths constantly emanated somewhere within the darkness of Tom and Shawnee's chosen escape tunnels running parallel to each other. Terrified, both the escapees would run as far as possible until sheer exhaustion took over their bodies. Seeking total confirmation of a successful escape the mind demanded continuance but their fatigued bodies were by now unable to respond! Plus there was the fact that at some point escaping to the outer world would have to take preference! It was quite possible that delving deeper into the unknown may not be the best strategy at this very moment. The ground level tunnels lacked regular lighting when compared to the examples at the hill's top entrance that had sucked these unknowing teenagers into the town's hidden secret. Trying to slow her breathing Shawnee worried that the Vampires would be able to hear the rapid beating of her heart! To remain stealth she covered over her mouth, attempting to subdue the panting noises of continuous fast breathing. In Tom's tunnel the situation was basically the same, he had also run as far as an exhausted body was willing to go and by now also had chosen to halt the escape. Each of these ground level tunnels was larger in circumference and more leveled off underfoot. Perhaps they had been used for a different purpose many years ago? Recomposed, their thoughts now turned to Jacob's unknown fate? Had he escaped back to the entrance and somehow found a way through the red goo at the tunnel room's ceiling? Or perhaps by now the Vampires had returned to conscious state and had proceeded with the hunt for him? Worse still, maybe they were only ten feet away in the dark and about to unleash a horrible revenge on behalf of fallen comrades? It was super scary to consider all possible scenarios associated with this supposed journey of enlightenment that perhaps was not such a good idea after all!

Five long minutes later, the paranoia of the predicament had become too much for Tom who finally concluded that if the Vampires knew of his whereabouts. They would have been upon him by now and viciously ripping at his throat without any form of mercy. It was time to explore his immediate surrounds just a little more! After all he had passed by a number carved out doorways to this point. In the knowledge that Shawnee was close by in another tunnel to his right side Tom would concentrate his efforts on any rooms or passageways towards the right. This dimly lit tunnel felt quite breezy, indicating he might just be lucky enough to find another viable exit other than the waiting abyss of the Vampires cavern lair. Meanwhile in the other tunnel Shawnee's thoughts had arrived to a similar conclusion. Can't go too far forwards and can't go too far back, time to explore a bit! Just like Tom, Shawnee was aware of his entry into the tunnel close to hers. Who knows, maybe just maybe they could find each other in this darkened maze? Tom recalled running past a torchlight some hundred or so feet back just around a bend. This would be the place to conduct a search for any escape routes he reassured himself as now he maneuvered back in that direction. Shawnee's quest was not so organized as she contemplated which direction to take? Further into the waiting darkness or back towards the waiting Vampires? It was a no win situation that left her wishing for more light and coin to toss up as the deciding factor. Undecided, Shawnee considered just how many tunnels were running off the cavern's main room and how the floating Vampires seemed oblivious to her and Tom's whereabouts at the time of the other Vampires demise.

Maybe they had actually escaped into these tunnels totally unnoticed? It was also possible the Master Vampire was not even fully conscious when they had fled? Slowly retracing her footsteps Shawnee would follow Tom's strategy, if other rooms or passageways were on offer, they would be explored in preference to the main cavern. Ever cautious Shawnee was well aware there would be nothing good waiting for her back there. Finally situated back at the torchlight Tom took a moment to acknowledge just how different this tunnel's example was. Unlike other wall torches previously observed this flaming torchlight had a distinctly industrial look about it. This specimen was mass produced going by the dust covered base that was a metal of some sort. This occurrence inspired Tom to consider he may not have been the first human to travel through this place? But who else could have possibly come this way an inquisitive Tom wondered. Then it struck him! Of course these are old mining tunnels and that must mean somewhere in this dark labyrinth there would be an answer to his search! There must be another exit! Although lateral thinking also suggested the possibility of a cave in at some time in the past meant it may never actually be discovered? But hey there was a breeze and if it was not coming from the main cavern as Tom suspected, it must originate from somewhere else! Shawnee's separate path of enlightenment was also achieving good results as now she noticed a slight refection bouncing off the cave's wall just little ahead. Upon closer inspection and once dusted off Shawnee could just make out the word 'Tunnel' It then also dawned upon her, this was an old mine that had strangely never made it into any of the town's news pictorials? Regardless of what this all meant? Just like Tom she came to the conclusion there must be another possible exit somewhere within?

An inspired search was on! Must find a room or passageway leading out of here. Then once free bring back some of the town's folk to find the others. Amazingly only fifty feet away in the parallel tunnel to Shawnee's, Tom was making inroads with his own escape mission. He had by now found a man made room exhibiting a wooden framed doorway! A good indication this was indeed where minors had once walked before, perhaps quite often? Much to his relief Tom then found himself to be within an old tool room of sorts. On display were picks shovels and even what appeared to be a box of dynamite! A sight that quickly forced him onto the back foot as he swiftly swung the lit torch away from any possible ignition! Once again his heart was pounding overtime, but this time instead of fear it was apprehension and just a little bit of excitement. Heck he even spotted an old hat which was soon upon his head as now he contemplated the many tales of Indiana Jones. However it was the recognition of a wooden wall behind all this stuff that really made his heart race! This must lead to Shawnee's tunnel he excitedly told himself. Amazing to think only five minutes ago he was sure there could be no positive outcome and now there was a chance to not only escape, but to possibly escape with Shawnee as well! Somber thoughts of Jacob's currently unknown destiny accompanied this premature joy as reality reaffirmed there was much work to be done yet. Tom looked over the various tools on offer and decided against obvious selections such as hammers, picks and axes. No it would have to be a quieter prying motion of a crowbar allowing him entry into the adjacent tunnel to find Shawnee. Who coincidently was very close to discovering the opposing tool room in her tunnel. As luck would have it, both of the tool rooms were only separated by one wooden wall that by now mildly suffering from wood rot. Making it easier for a hard working Tom to break through to Shawnee.

Tom's choice of a quieter workman's tool had proven to be adequate but not perfect, as Shawnee cautiously found herself drawn to what she considered to be a 'creaking noise' The presence of this unusual sound made no sense and almost repelled her back further into the darkness! It was scary to think she was actually going towards this noise when all thoughts of self-preservation screamed for her to run the other way! Run for your life or perish at the hands of bloodthirsty Vampires! Never the less slow cautious steps took her closer to where the unidentified sound was coming from. All too quickly Shawnee was situated at the doorway of the opposing tool room and naturally hesitant to enter the waiting room. There could be no denying this was the location of where the puzzling creaking noise originated. Through dim light Shawnee soon noticed dust particles dropping down from the ceiling as suddenly she jumped in expectation of a Vampire dropping down to finish her off! Now back outside the doorway she cowered down to her knees in the belief certain death was surely only a fleeting moment away. However the expected swooping action of a vengeful Vampire did not eventuate and a few grateful moments later she was once more at the door's entranceway. Frozen in dread she remained absolutely still, seeking a definitive answer to origins of the strange sound. Slightly shifting tools on the back wall of the dimly lit room only added to drama of the mystery secretly unfolding. As now it occurred to Shawnee it could quite possibly be a Vampire trying to obtain entry to her chosen tunnel via the opposing tool room! Panicked questions ran through her unsettled thoughts, should I run? Should I arm myself and fight? Should I simply submit and end this unfathomable nightmare!

Uncertain of the next move, it was only the chance sighting of light faintly moving past one of the wooden back wall's cracks that changed her perception of what was going on. Could it possibly be Tom on the other side? Rushing towards the barely visible wall Shawnee soon impacted it with such a force that on the other side Tom was left wondering what the current situation had in store for him? Thoughts of a forced retreat entered his now not so positive mind. Unsure of it all, he slowly moved back from the mysterious wall in front of him whilst preparing to run for his life. Something unknown was laid in wait on the other side of this old rotting wooden wall and if it was as powerful as a Vampire? It would only be a matter of second's head start if it chose to pursue him! All of his survival instincts declared it was just too risky as he backed even further away preparing to make his escape. Upon choosing a few tools to be used as weapons, which included dynamite! A nervous Tom was ready to retreat into the waiting tunnel behind as surprisingly came whispered words of 'Tom is that you? Are you there? It's me Shawnee' Letting out a huge sigh of relief Tom was quickly back to the chosen task at hand! He soon informed an overcome with joy Shawnee to stand back as inspired attempts to break through to her became more forceful. Perhaps even reckless, but who could blame him? The thought of reacquainting him-self with Shawnee seemed well worth the noisy risk of the moment? Standing back as tools haphazardly began to fall off the wall from her side. Shawnee watched on in sheer delight as wooden palings began to break away from the walls framework. Then finally here was Tom, nearly with her again!

Before long it all became too much as through welled up tears of relief a more than grateful Shawnee began ripping away at the rotting wooden panels to help a friend be at her side just little bit quicker! Then, only a matter of seconds later they embraced as only long lost friends would. Although it had only been an hour of terrifying solitude, it sure did feel like a lifetime had passed by! Relieved at not having to endure this ongoing nightmare alone they each silently gave thanks to God. Finally recomposed and feeling slightly awkward about the previous few seconds they both agreed this was literally a 'gold mine' of equipment waiting to assist their impending escape. Scouring through the various tools and makeshift weapons on offer they were soon armed to hilt with what was now holy water blessed weaponry! To further add to defenses they each took a small sip of the Grandma Shee's blessed water. The addition of well fuelled lanterns made the difficult job at hand just a little easier as next they migrated back into Shawnee's tunnel in further exploration of a feasible exit. Carefully and quietly they wandered the many desolate rooms and passageways until the silence was broken by Tom 'What about Jacob?' Sensing his telling remorse Shawnee replied 'What do you want to do?' However in response, only the sounds of careful steps were to be heard. Apparently a silent Tom was too frightened to answer his own question? Aware of his anguish Shawnee declared that where Jacob was last observed was just too far and high up and unobtainable to expect to find him before the Vampires. Shawnee further noted they had been more than lucky to this point while also now reminding Tom of the Master Vampire's newly awakened consciousness. Toms saddened heart reluctantly conceded their friend and hero Jacob was most likely gone by now.

Thoughts of an heroic return were quietly pondered by silent travellers. Both currently lost in thought of just how precious their own individual mortality is. However all such well intended notions of courage were then interrupted by the distant sound of a bone chilling primal scream! Reverberating reminders of unbridled danger instantly returned all strayed thoughts back to the most important aspect of the moment at hand, one's own self preservation! Further than ever imagined they now boldly ventured into the waiting darkness of the old mining tunnel. The reassuring knowledge that other people had previously also walked these tunnels made this foray into the unknown just a little more tolerable. Even if it was perhaps well over a hundred years ago since humans had crossed this ground! As the search for alternative avenues of escape continued a quiet conversation about what ever happened to this place soon became the main topic. Tom assessed the Master Vampire creature probably killed all the miners and because the towns folk wanted to sell off their land they closed up the mine while agreeing to never speak of it again! Shawnee was happy enough to go along with Tom's reasonable theory but couldn't help wonder how presumably the death of so many miners could be so conveniently covered up? A skeptical Tom soon reminded her that study of the town's chronicles read like a who's who of corruption in the early stages of this pioneering outpost's history. Everyone from the mayor to the town's sheriff all seemed to have their finger placed in the pie somewhere. To the point when Tom had a real good think about things they were currently enduring, he was quite surprised the whole town wasn't haunted. Taking into account the mounting toll of innocent deaths that had occurred in earlier past decades, Tom suggested 'Perhaps this place is actually well known and the legacy of waiting gold is secretly passed down among certain local family generations?'

Discarding all possible corruption it remained comforting to both to acknowledge some form of previous human existence had once walked through these mysterious old tunnels. Fascinated by the bizarre circumstances Shawnee stated it amazing to think that a historical location purely designed to find gold was over a hundred years later being used to create some form of life. Things sure do change over time she quietly considered while tightly clinging to the axe in her hand, poised to vigorously swing away at all threats unknown. Also gripping at his weapons tightly, Tom repeatedly assured himself he would return for the missing Jacob, whether he was dead or alive? Thankfully the recent bone chilling screams of the Master Vampire had subsided and became absent from their thoughts. Their instinctive journey through this section of the cave tunnels felt somehow different? Old dust covered signage was now frequently observed, either hanging from the ceiling or at eye level on both sides to the tunnel. In fact at one particular junction of passageways the sight of five larger than previous signs took Tom's mind off walking that he now tripped on something underfoot? Gathering back together his sprawled out array of rustic weapons Tom excitedly shared the following news with Shawnee 'Train tracks, there's train tracks but what use to us!' In response Shawnee enthusiastically declared 'Don't you see we can follow them to an exit and get help for Jacob!' Moments later, repacked and ready to go they finally allowed themselves to talk about outside world for the first time in hours.

'I'm absolutely famished! I'm gonna get a burger at Bobs Fast Food as soon as we're outta here!' a super hungry Shawnee proclaimed. Dreaming of the tantalizing prospect of a greasy burger and salty fries an equally famished Tom further added 'With extra bacon' Excited giggles resonated out to all directions in the old mining tunnel. 'Hey Shawnee I wish I could take one of these old signs home, it would be a great reminder of all this stuff' Unwilling to dismiss the plight of a lost Jacob Shawnee gently murmured 'When we come back with some help would be the best time' Sensing her regretful thoughts a respectful Tom replied 'Yeah, I guess you're right' As the pace increased so did the noise of all their gear. Assorted items were regularly clanging in time with every hurried footstep forwards! Alerted to these unwanted sounds Tom concluded if they were still being hunted this was basically an open invitation to their position. 'Hang on Shawnee, we need to slow down just a bit so we don't give away our location' But this was the last thing a keen to continue on Shawnee wanted to hear! 'Slow down, are you kidding?' .... 'No Shawnee I'm not kidding, we are not safe yet! We need to be a bit quieter' As the discussion continued they passed under another large sign hanging down off the roof. INTERSECTION AHEAD Excited by possible escape 'We need to take a chance' professed a determined Shawnee surging forwards with long extended strides. However before Tom could offer any reply to her enthusiasm from behind came the clanging sound of an unknown impact? In a heartbeat their worst nightmare cruelly returned! 'We are not alone' Reluctantly they both stopped then slowly turned around, attempting to identify the source of impacted sound. Dreaded thoughts of approaching blood lusting Vampires born of the darkness invaded petrified minds. Then, much to their adrenaline fuelled horror it was soon obvious something unseen had indeed recently struck one the overhead signs recently passed by. The disturbed sign was enthusiastically swinging rapidly back and forth, as if powered by a gale force breeze in the tunnel!

Diminished confidence combined with hurried vision to search left to right then left again as begrudgingly they examined all in sight for a definitive answer 'Had the blood hungry Vampires finally found them?' Then, emerging from out of the darkest part of the tunnel arrived a diabolical swooshing sound accompanied a fast moving flash!. Moments later, again another swooshing sound passed by as instinctively they swiftly dived down to the ground in hope it was just a solitary lost bat searching for it's colony. However the ever-present sound of a swinging rusty-hinged sign just back a little was a stark reminder the situation had dramatically changed. It was indisputably obvious this was most likely for the worst! As the terrifying realization of being stranded out in the open and presenting as easy prey hit home, Shawnee insisted 'They get down low and sit back to back' With adrenalized fuel she immediately shuffled into a defensive position behind the opposite facing Tom. Hopelessly exposed and with nowhere to hide here they remained in dim hope of offering up some form of a decent defense to a fast moving predator. Raised and ready to strike Tom's shaking hunting knife would be seen randomly reflecting off their only light source, the old lantern. Overwhelmed by fear of the insufferable situation a worried Tom tried to evaluate if he had actually pissed himself in all the commotion? It was not a conundrum he openly chose to share with an equally worried Shawnee who truth to be known was wondering the exact same thing. AS a result, neither of the stranded travelers could manage to summon up enough courage to move for the next five minutes or so. Frozen in fear they each felt the turning head of their comrade behind undertaking silent surveillance. Stranded in purgatory they could only hope to get one last swing of chosen weapons before being taken far beyond their worst nightmares! These orchestrated tactics of a well hidden foe revealed a cunning plan to manipulate their minds far beyond what either of their sanity could endure. This was becoming a deadly game of human life support in the dark! Jacob's previous playful spoken words regarding the prize seemed frugal when compared to the appetite of a bloodthirsty Vampire.

Simultaneously fluttering hearts raced away at what seemed at least two hundred beats a minute? Frantic breathing was constantly subdued in an ongoing quest to maintain stealth. Which of course was entirely impossible considering their current position in the middle of the tunnels floor. Darting eyes urgently searched for sanctuary via alternative escape routes such as nearby chamber rooms. After a time, a tentative Tom announced he was once again going to stand upright. Shawnee suggested to rise up together rather than have Tom expose himself to whatever may lay waiting to attack from somewhere in the nearby dark. Without hesitation Tom gratefully accepted Shawnee's magnanimous offer as together they simultaneously rose up as one. With dry eyes much too frightened to even chance a blink they both scrutinized every visible nook and cranny in the tunnel's immediate vicinity. After a long minute of frightened observation Shawnee announced she was breaking free of the frozen duo's current stance. Praying the unseen danger has passed Tom did not argue if it meant they could now resume the quest for a quick escape without any further delay! Besieged by tormented fear once again they followed the old mining tunnel's rail tracks into the darkness up ahead. Troubled thoughts of 'Not if, but when?' were used when evaluating their next encounter with one the Vampires! Terrified by the current bleak situation Tom fought hard to resist all urges to just dump his gear and go running off into the tunnels unknown secrets. It was only Shawnee's nearby stoic reliance that allowed for him to falsely present himself as a composed traveling companion. Unconsciously Shawnee found herself frequently touching the necklace given to her by Grandma Shee. This was an instinctive survival ritual she was completely oblivious to as her worried field eyes regularly swung to all directions.

Harrowing, the next five minutes gratefully passed by without similar incident to the previous encounter. Finally at last their mind bending paranoia slowly begun to dissolve into disturbed memories. Soon came another timely reminder of the previous humans who had once graced these tunnels. Just ahead lay a number tools haphazardly scattered over the tunnels black dusty floor. At first it felt quite reassuring until Shawnee eventually concluded all these mining aides appeared to have been just dropped where ever the original miners had hurriedly disposed of them? She could not help wonder if they too had fled this place in sheer terror just like these two travelers really should be doing. 'Tom I really do think it could be time to just take our chances and run from this place as soon as possible, like now!' Relieved that Shawnee's latest suggestion was in total synchronicity with his current thoughts. Before Shawnee had even finished talking Tom had swiftly commenced his escape into the darkness ahead! All the previous notions of traveling in calculated stealth mode were instantly redundant as only one-second later Shawnee also began a fast paced quest for freedom! Constant sounds of clanging metal loudly echoed throughout all nearby tunnels and passageways! It was a do or die situation where all caution was officially now thrown to the wind! Flickering lights bounced off anything even remotely reflective. Although most objects they passed by were comprehensively covered by a thick layer of century old mining dust. Unleashed, the feelings associated with such a brash move surprisingly brought about a certain kind of euphoric joy. Excitedly they would both now experience a strange new surge of hope fuelled elation that only the soon to be free of all burden could truly understand. Incident free minutes later the tunnel ahead reached a larger t-intersection. To the fleeing duo's extreme gratitude was a large distinctive sign containing an arrow shaped pointer indicating the desired escape route. 'Exit this Way' Frustratingly only a large sealed off wooden wall barrier remained as a final hurdle to freedom!

Shielded emotions of subdued relief were unashamedly released as the true expectation that this ordeal was possibly concluding were cautiously considered not to be just fantasy. After all they had just read a creditable indication of this fact. 'Exit This Way' Ecstatically they each embraced this new tangible outcome that only five minutes ago seemed distinctly impossible! At last there was a truly feasible escape back to the real world! Shawnee even turned her back on a Indian heritage for just a short moment as she muttered the words 'Oh Thank God' Close by Tom happily backed up her sentiment by contributing 'Amen' Bounding forwards in new found enthusiasm Shawnee turned back to Tom to reaffirm her brazen delight. However Shawnee's newly found pleasure was now cruelly returned to the mind numbing reality of their bizarre situation. To her confusion a noticeably distracted Tom had surprisingly slowed down his advance to a complete stop? Puzzled by the increasingly worried expression on his face a questioning Shawnee stopped her surge forwards to ask 'Tom, what is it?' In silent reply a distinctly nervous looking Tom could only slowly raise his trembling right hand to point at a static hovering silhouette now positioned just beyond them in front of the exit. Wafting forwards as if carried by a slight breeze the features of the unidentified creature soon came to the fore. On view was an almost like pale white weather beaten Indian brave with two distinctly blue stripes painted just under each eye on the cheekbone. Stunned by this emerging sight Shawnee instantly knew it had to be Two Rivers. One of the original two tribal brothers who had stumbled across the Great Plains Vampire creature hundreds of years ago! Fearing the worst Shawnee carefully gestured to Tom to immediately cease any further movement. Although at this point Tom was again ready to make a fast retreat to the darkness behind, and he may have done so if not for the intriguing occurrence of a strange dialect spoken by the Indian Vampire.

It was soon apparent all words spoken originated from a Great Plains Indian tongue and that only a tribal educated Shawnee could possibly grasp upon. Sensing his irrelevance Tom carefully maneuvered closer to the tunnel's wall in the belief he was purposely being left out of the strange conversation about to take place. Sharp angered tones indicated the eerily hovering creature of the night was none too happy about the turn of events that had recently taken place! If there was ever any possible doubting of the creature's grievances Shawnee's English worded reply soon confirmed they were indeed the sole subjects of its distain! 'How can you blame us' Shawnee loudly rebuffed in both English and then in her native Indian Tongue. 'We are only travelers of the ground above who were forcefully drawn down into your evil realm without choice!' Again the obviously angered dark world entity unleashed a barrage of short sharp words born of a foreign language to the respectfully silent Tom. Although, in return a defiant Shawnee daringly raised her responding voice to such a level it was also apparent she was none too happy about the current circumstances either. In both English and her Indian Tongue she then stated 'How can you blame us if your almighty master of the night has chosen to punish you?' Turning to the sheepish looking Tom Shawnee again shared her assessment in both languages 'We will not be held solely responsible for your incompetence! How can you dare blame us if your cruel master now wields his anger towards you and the other unworthy members born of your tainted tribe!' Astonished at what he was witnessing Tom could only consider a boldly rebellious Shawnee had chosen to have her say before a spiteful death was unleashed upon her!

Continuing unsolicited words of rebellion boldly echoed throughout the tunnel 'I care not if your master has now killed the other remaining tribesmen of your wicked lair, why are you not honorable in death with them?' Reviewing the unusual stand off on display Tom concluded the unsettling primal scream heard a while back was the Master Vampire taking his anger out on the floating braves failing to hunt down Jacob. Tom also further determined that somehow Two Rivers had escaped his master's wrath, only to then seek out revenge on the escaping duo. Their current situation would not end well a despondent Tom silently conceded to himself. As the myriad of heated words regarding blame and denial bounced to and throw between those born of Indian Plains blood! Watching on Tom found secretly himself searching for a solution to what was surely to be a brutally harsh death, probably just moments away? With purposefully slow careful head movements designed not to draw attention to himself Tom was fortuitously alerted to a dust covered doorway displaying the words 'Mine Closed Due To Gas' Revived hope for survival or at worst a faster death, inch by inch ever so gently Tom edged towards possible salvation?

His plan was simple enough, get the three sticks of dynamite he carried into the gas filled passageway. Encouraged by the assumption there was nothing to lose a scheming Tom had by now decided if he was going out it was gonna to be with one all mighty big bang if left with no other options! Needing more time to achieve his objective Tom could only hope the increasingly argumentative Shawnee continued on with her brash words designed to stall the inevitable. Arriving at the waiting doorway Tom tried to covertly pry open the old dust covered doors, although it was to no avail! Repeatedly he wedged his blessed hunting knife into the gap dividing the doors, only to eventually hear the cracking sound of broken metal. Regretfully the knife tool had loudly split into two pieces!

Realizing the inevitable danger of his foolhardy actions Tom's worried attention instantly refocused back to the hovering Vampire. Although strangely for reasons unknown the vengeful creature was momentarily distracted from an undeterred Shawnee still embroiled in the midst of another verbal tirade! This was an explosion of heated words that by now had dropped all forms of English. Decisively insolent, her retaliatory actions seemed to have only acted as an ongoing source of bemusement to the nonchalant assailant. Unexpectedly though something concealed then commanded this tainted brave's attention? An occurrence long enough to allow for a quick thinking Shawnee to turn to Tom in apprehension of a plan? Acknowledging her silent request for an update Tom simply pointed the sign on the door and smiled. Perplexed but pleased to know something was about to happen Shawnee enthusiastically unleashed her next verbal tirade. All aimed at capturing the complete focus of a now noticeably more distracted Vampire. For reasons unknown it was now obvious the Vampire Brave's attention solely concentrated on something else in the tunnel! Then it suddenly dawned upon Tom that the Master Vampire creature had surely entered the tunnel system! Going by the actions of a noticeably concerned Two Rivers. Precious time was fast running out for Tom to make his play. He could only hope the threat of the lurking master beast would allow for another attempt to enter the closed off doorway. In between each burst of native tongue rebellion Shawnee called upon the waiting Tom to act. 'Now Tom, Now!'

Annoyingly though a patient Tom was not yet satisfied the best chance to implement the plan had eventuated? Then, finally the desired moment arose as a disturbingly close by shriek of primal life echoed throughout all tunnels and passageways! As proof of mounting fear a visibly flustered Two Rivers reactively turned to all directions, then back to the threatening darkness of the tunnel behind him. Finally the perfect opportunity for Tom's plan had arrived as forcefully he wedged an old miner's pick into the dividing gap between the doors. Seconds later accompanied by a large cracking sound the entranceway to the room was finally breached! Then before Shawnee could even acknowledge it Tom had already thrown two of the three unlit sticks of dynamite as far as possible into the pungent gas filled minor's tunnel. However the escaping flow of intense oxygen starved gas quickly overwhelmed a forced to retreat Tom! Physically unable to continue he quickly stepped back in the realization he could not possibly have time to create a spark of ignition and then throw the third and final stick of dynamite. Well not without definitely blowing not only himself and most likely Shawnee as well. Presented with this baffling final life and death choice Tom's searching eyes honed in towards the nearby Shawnee.

His heroic plan to take them all out was now actually possible if he could manage to create a spark, but was this what Shawnee wanted? Motionless he stood firm, seeking a unanimous resolution to the problem at hand. With only short moments to decide their fate and gasping from the rapidly spreading gas Shawnee screamed to Tom to follow her lead. Without fear of ramifications Shawnee now ran directly to where the distracted Two Rivers hovered with his back turned to them. Stunned by what happened next, Two Rivers would then observe his once cornered prey suddenly abscond past him to the direction of the looming Master Vampire! Confusion reigned supreme as now a dire choice had to be made whether to pursue the two escapees or whether self-preservation would surpass all objectives? A bizarre conundrum beckoned, follow and kill or follow and be killed?

Eventually the motionless floating Vampire Indian Brave concluded these mortal intruders would indeed have to pay for their disruptive insolence and utter disrespect to what was obviously their true master! Yes sweet revenge was beckoning and it would be swift and as painful as possible as now Two Rivers began to recall some of his brutal torture techniques from all those many years ago as a Great Plains tribesman. Perhaps with a little luck a pleased Master Vampire may just forgive him and allow for Two Rivers to extend his service faithfully positioned by his side? With his final choice arrived at Two Rivers eagerly surged forwards towards his waiting destiny hidden somewhere within the dimly lit tunnel ahead! Beyond him clanging sounds of fleeing humans echoed throughout all adjoining chambers, passageways and tunnels. Curiously, it was possible the array of reverberating loud sounds was actually buy them a little confusion time as all pursuers tried to pinpoint exactly where this series of metal based clangs originated from? Within two minutes of this final quest for freedom they had turned three corners in a desperate search for the exit. Encouraged, they faithfully believed every turn taken at a corner or t-intersection would surely buy them extra time! However much care would have to be taken to avoid any wrong turns. They still needed to return to the exit barrier sooner than later! Out front the leading Shawnee believed the tunnel's route would be based on a square grid allowing for a return to the start? She was well aware that just one wrong turn would see them unceremoniously inserted back into a subterranean maze of nightmares! Their frantic last struggle for life called for extra long strides, all aimed at reaching the finishing line before either Master Vampire or Indian brave. Repeated noises of their bouncing makeshift weaponry now began to play eerie tricks on the fleeing minds of the escapees. Conjointly regular changes of light and shadows continued to dance all around their fleeing strides.

This was becoming a futile exercise born of sheer madness a tiring Tom begrudgingly told himself. Then to his relief, up front a leading Shawnee excitedly began to up the pace even more having now gratefully identified what she believed to be the reappearance of the sealed off main exit! 'We are back Tom, we are at the exit!' A skeptical Tom did not allow himself to answer Shawnee's positive words of inspiration. In Tom's rattled mind until he was reunited with the outside world this nightmare would continue as far as he was concerned. Evidently he was fully justified to feel so anxious as next moment appeared the disparaging sight of a wry smiling Two Rivers emerging from a side tunnel directly in front of the path to freedom. Exhausted and despondent the two exhausted travelers came to realization the good fight was over and sadly it was not going to be victory for the humans! Shattered, Shawnee stopped dead in her tracks again offering up some futile abuse in her native tongue. But it was all to no avail as slowly forwards the ready to strike Indian Vampire advanced. With a positively evil smile Two Rivers menacingly displayed a full armory of elongated fangs designed to swiftly penetrate soft human flesh. Arriving at her side gently Tom thanked Shawnee for her courage and amazing skills that had got them so close to the outside world. Accepting their inevitable fate a smiling Shawnee simply stated 'We sure gave it one hell of a good fight, didn't we' For reasons best known to the Vampire Brave, it was Shawnee to be the first of these two humans taken to a horrific afterlife. Perhaps her recent barrage of scorned words depicting how Two Rivers had betrayed their Plain's people heritage had stung a little more than the Vampire would openly admit?

Taking in some last deep breaths Tom gave a final moment's consideration to one last heroic charge! Reluctantly he finally conceded it would only just delay their inevitable demise at the hands of this far superior foe preparing to feast! For Two Rivers orchestrating this final demise of these rogue traveler's was an act of deadly theater that would hopefully appease an angered master of the lair? Only mere mortal moments now remained for the two defeated adventures of the human world. Wishing to confirm it had not all been vain Tom chose not to miss the chance to declare to Shawnee that it would have been one hell of a written story! Acknowledging the absolute irony of the situation Shawnee whispered 'How true' as now the salivating Vampire maneuvered in closer for the final kill. Taking the approaching Vampire by surprise an apparently submitting Shawnee suddenly knelt down to her knees with head bowed. This open submission to her superior victor pleased the soon to feed Vampire no end as short bursts of laughter erupted from within. However the subterfuge that was an apparently defeated Shawnee had secretly only sought to buy a little extra time that allowing for a firm grasp on a now unclasped canteen containing the blessed holy water.

As a victorious and ready to strike Vampire proudly approached to within reach of the kneeling Shawnee, suddenly upwards erupted out a spray of blessed fluid from the unnoticed canteen of holy water. The resulting explosion of burning pain was instant and immense! The shock of this happening was equally overwhelming as through smoldering eyes an incredulous night feeder awkwardly recoiled backwards! Amidst hissing angered screams of intense pain Two Rivers cried out his absolute denial of the sudden change of events! Inspired, Shawnee and Tom quickly splashed the remaining contents of the canteen over themselves attempting to buy more time as nearby their stunned opponent smoldered away in agonizing disbelief! Painfully foaming at the mouth from the last remnants of burning holy water that were unwillingly swallowed. A furious Two Rivers cursed the young human Indian woman courageous enough to deny this superior Vampire certain death at his hands. Recomposed and ready to retaliate an acid steaming Two Rivers curiously observed the necklace in Shawnee's possession. As next she purposely held it high into view.

With the knowledge she held command of the aggrieved creature's full attention, in her native tongue Shawnee proudly proclaimed 'This jewelry proudly holds your tribal brother's death blood and is offered as a stark reminder of how he valiantly defeated your quest to steal his final moments. He demonstrated how the inherent goodwill of earth born mankind will always remain stoically superior to any unholy foe emerging from the unknown dark realms of a living hell!' Experiencing incredible pain from increasingly blistered skin Two Rivers once more summoned up all of his might to avenge the pain of all his dead comrades. Precious moments had been gained, however the enduring resolve of this vengeful Vampire indicated he was destined to be the ultimate victor in this most unusual struggle for existence! Disheartened Shawnee begrudgingly found herself accepting the failed last action to save the day and their souls was truly over. This was it, the closing moments of a life with no secret tactics or hidden surprises remaining. In just a matter of a few terrifying seconds Two River's unrelenting desire for these brave mortal's blood would be quenched! Sharing her loss Tom edged forwards to present him self as first offering to the waiting warrior of the night. Side by side they humbly stood as the Vampire's pupils diluted from a dead black to that of a pale milky red, the last hurdle before the strike!

Tom tightly squeezed Shawnee's hand then suggested they close their eyes to deny the vengeful Vampire the pleasure of witnessing their terror. Shawnee squeezed Tom's hand in silent agreement as together they closed their eyes on the final view of a mortal world. With all surely lost the next moment's series of events could never have been accurately predicted by either the about to die humans or a hate filled Vampire for that matter. Because suddenly from the side of Two Rivers out from the dark arrived an unbridled fury of destruction via the shape of the Master Vampire beast! Engulfed, an unsuspecting Two Rivers was struck with such force that both of the unholy creatures instantly disappeared into the adjoining side tunnel! Alerted to an unexpected reprieve relieved human eyes reopened as quickly the condemned traveler's surged forwards to miraculously try just one more chance at uncompromised freedom. Into the final barrier wildly Tom swung the antique miners axe he had clung onto for the last hour in the hope of using it for this exact purpose. Positioned directly by his side the brave Shawnee also aggressively swung her chosen tool of choice. This was a smaller axe reminiscent to that of a traditional tomahawk. Cracking shards of splintering wood exploded back into their face as strike after strike sweet freedom inched closer and closer! Then at last, one of the many vertical wooden barriers to their freedom finally gave way to allow a burst a fresher air into the tunnel. Inspired by the tantalizingly real prospect they may actually survive this unbelievable twisted ordeal with every strike at the one hundred year wooden barrier their intensity increased!

As one by one the large vertical planks restricting a glorious escape gradually collapsed into a huddle of broken wood an almost holy sound of melodic voices came to the fore. If not for the physically demanding chore currently undertaken both escapees could have sworn they were actually experiencing confirmation of their place in heaven! So mesmerizing were the angelic beauty of the sounds gloriously echoing out to them! The plethora of macabre events experienced over the past harrowing hours had confirmed to both that such a scenario as this holy calling was somehow possible, even if highly unlikely? Confused by the contradiction of circumstances Tom now wondered if perhaps he really had been the victim of a crazed Vampire attack? As the nearby joyful sounds of God's kingdom continued on thoughts of a blissful afterlife accompanied every strike closer to what was surely a heavenly existence positioned just beyond his reach. Working just as hard, if not harder a ferociously axe wielding Shawnee found herself also immersed into unspoken thoughts of a blessed heavenly world only mere feet away. Although the angelic bliss of it all was soon interrupted as Tom deeply gashed his hands while breaking through the final upright wooden pale. Completely lost in the moment they both remained unsure if they were experiencing pain or pleasure? Either way it appeared something extraordinary really was happening! Even if they did not fully understand it all or know why? Anticipating God's welcoming arms Shawnee found herself almost laughing with delight as finally she also entered beyond the perceived last barrier to their escape. Fuelled up by pure ecstasy the surging duo suddenly found them-selves frustratingly positioned outside a further single door with the magical sounds of the angelic music situated just beyond!

Standing at each other's side they arrived at the same conclusion, the real belief they were about to be accepted into the blessed world of a heavenly after life. For this could be no strange coincidence that they were both simultaneously immersed in the exact same glorious feelings of life beyond all known existence. Side by side they could not help but wonder if was this some form of a reward for the unforeseen test they had just triumphantly endured! Lost to the moment it was never once contemplated this nightmarish ordeal unwillingly endured was perhaps something completely different? Perhaps this was really a human designed test for some kind of new drug or psychic medical procedure? Only one thing remained certain at this point which was that the desired answer could only be found on the other side of the mystical doorway waiting to be crossed over. Together, patiently they each stood respectfully waiting for the other to be the one who would ultimately take destiny of their chosen fate? As the anticipation of the moment beckoned unwavering melodic tones were then further joined by the sounds of joyful angels loudly singing Gods praises!

Unsure of life or death, sheepishly both souls hesitated to be the chosen one to open up this enchanted doorway to another world. After a time they each cautiously offered up a hand to share the daunting task. Although just as they did so once more came the unmistakable sounds of an aggrieved Master Vampire on a revenge driven prowl. As conflicted realities now returned them back to mortal based thoughts they desperately each tried to turn the waiting doorknob. Once more, worryingly close by echoed the spine chilling sounds of approaching evil via a series of wickedly tormented screams imitating the last moments of diseased soul! Forewarned it was now obvious this woeful creature residing within the darkness had specifically sought them out! Recent experiences strongly indicated that not any of its intentions could ever be considered the slightest bit heavenly! Plus there was also one other critical element so far unconsidered by either Tom or Shawnee, which was the possibility of the door being locked? Which it was!

Decisive action was called for and it had to be now! 'Kick it in Tom or we die' bellowed out the panicked words of Shawnee. Already in the midst of a series of kicking strikes to the mysterious door a frantic Tom needed no extra convincing of the critical nature of the immediate task. The equation was simple, secure their escape or perish at the hands of an approaching unworldly beast. Shawnee desperately craved to join Tom in his frantic quest but there was simply just not enough room for the two of them! Watching on and feeling utterly useless Shawnee could only helplessly stand by and wait for God sent sounds of penetrated wood to confirm the task undertaken by Tom was at last completed! After a few more long dreaded moments finally the desired goal of an unrestricted entry was upon them as worryingly all heavenly sounds behind the door coincidently ceased to be with the smashing of the door!

Was this form of entry into a glorified kingdom considered blasphemous worried thoughts soon questioned? Had they somehow possibly misread the situation and failed this last unknown requirement for successful entry into Heaven's Gates? It was now wondered if they had made a crucial mistake by breaking the door open? Menacing sounds of the nearby beast again burdened the surrounding darkness of their confines. Blessed or not? There was no other viable option other than to hurriedly proceed forwards through the weakened doorway. With little or no time remaining before the beast arrived they would forgo any of the normal contrived formality's such as 'ladies first' As without hesitation Shawnee hurriedly pushed Tom first through the heavenly doorway into a bright beaming ray of light temporarily blinding the two of them! Wavering hands instantly rose up over squinting eyes in an awkward attempt to uncover their chosen fate. Nervous seconds later the true destination of their escape was unceremoniously revealed! Totally shocked and now completely forgetting about the trailing beast a stunned Shawnee and Tom would stand motionless in front of what was a bewildered Sunday church congregation! Equally surprised, the churches worshippers had only moments beforehand ceased their hymen singing due the rowdy distraction that was the fleeing duos entrance into their Sunday church service!

Disorientated, the worshippers of the town's only church quietly sat in utter disbelief as from pulpit the overseeing reverend broke the awkward silence of the shocked room. 'What in tarnation's is going on here? You can't just burst into our Sunday service all willy nilly like!' However there simply wasn't enough time for polite explanation regarding the recent life and death dilemma previously unfolding only a matter of a hundred or so feet away. Noticeably failing to convey any of the required facts of the horrible ordeal suffered and noticeably lost for any suitably adequate words a clumsy looking Tom simply turned to point to the broken doorway. However a quick thinking Shawnee promptly commanded all the room's attention by abruptly stating 'The evil beyond is now here and about to enter this house of God!' Incensed, the reverend intervened 'Missy this is my house of God and we don't make bold claims about such things here' Tom quickly interjected 'Listen we are being stalked by an Indian Vampire and his ancient master!' Instantly dismissing the absurd notion of this obviously fabricated story some the congregation could not help themselves as bursts of laughter spread throughout the room. Undeterred Shawnee again tried to convey the underlying seriousness of the situation 'Don't you understand a very real evil resides in the hill behind us all and one day it will be free along with its army of Vampire Soldiers!' However by now an enraged reverend had heard enough as he moved towards the still heavily puffing duo to formally escort them both out of the premises! Although before he could lay a hand on either the unmistakable of sounds of agony entered the room via the dark doorway at the rear of the church! Reverberating cries of indescribable bone chilling tormented pain now loudly echoed off all the walls of the quaint little old church. Instantly forcing all eyes to the doorway!

There was denying something of terrifying nature was currently taking place somewhere not too far back in the darkness just beyond. Unexpectedly a bloodied and broken Two Rivers suddenly appeared from the nearby darkness, pleading for assistance in his native tribal tongue. Suffering even greater pain due the brightness of the numerous leadlight glass stained windows, his ghastly appearance instantly frightened all! Witness to this unbelievably agonizing ordeal they all gasped in disbelieving terror! The burdening question was how could someone look like this and still be alive? Behind Two River's jumbled pleas for help the distinctly violent sounds of primal destruction was also to be heard. Then suddenly from behind Two Rivers stance a massive claw vertically ripped down the depleted Indian Brave's weakened body! A blow with such a powerful force the instantly silenced body split down the middle to the waistline! The mind shattering nature of the violent event on display instantly created a shockwave of distraught screams. Mortified, the church's worshippers were unavoidably witnessing what could only be described as an extraordinary savage unnatural experience!

The congregation's terrified silence soon transformed into a subdued series of weeping sounds resonating from all parts of the room. Shortly after, the shredded remnants of the dead brave's body once known as Two Rivers began the succession of a defeated Vampire's death ritual. A sequence of events beginning with short massive bursts of blinding multi colored lights powerfully erupting out from the somehow still vertical remains of the torso. The unnatural forces behind these pulsated exploding bright lights were so powerful that a vibrating rumbling sound soon spread throughout the entire room. Dismayed, the folk who had instinctively covered their eyes to avert the macabre sight on offer could no longer avoid being unwilling participants to the death of a Vampire. Constantly increasing pulsations crept unabated throughout all blinded bodies. Threatening movements of the ground below continuously shook at the foundations of the old Church to such an extent the old wooden pale walls began to crack from the floor to the ceiling! Less than a minute later came an almighty blast so violent in its nature that a ringing sound was wildly left echoing throughout everyone's ears. Short seconds later the final sequence of an unholy death began as sections of the broken Vampire's shredded body transformed into a sandy dust appearance beginning to crumble freely to the floor. Screams of petrified horror and gasps of confusion reigned supreme as all worshipers began a charge for the exit way.

With all on their feet and seeking to be anywhere but here the destructive Master Vampire creature unleashed one more primal roar to quickly command all of the escaping churchgoer's attention! A plague of unashamed fear swiftly enveloped the occupants of the old single roomed church as frozen in their tracks all parishioners now pondered their own mortal fate? Did this ungodly winged beast desire to take them all to hell? Positioned closer to the church's recently opened back doorway than most. Tom and Shawnee both felt their hearts skip a beat as much to their horror the morally corrupt creature's attention seemed to suddenly solely focus on them alone! Feeling as helpless as a newborn baby they could only watch on in terror as the approaching Master Vampire prepared to fully enter this house of God! It was now patently apparent to the remorseful duo if this vengeful beast wanted to take you to hell it would somehow spitefully find a way! The time for their mortal life to end was again calling upon them. Nearby, all who bear witness to this gut-wrenching situation could only stand by in instinctive mortified shock. Reluctantly they were all dragged into the very real possibility of witnessing these two hapless souls about to be taken back into the darkness of the unknown. Standing back, many of the congregation now wondered who would be chosen next after the beast had finished his work with the two young travelers that had fought so valiantly to save their unblemished souls.

Having previously exhausted all feasible avenues of eluding what was seemingly a predetermined fate. In full acceptance of his demise a defeated Tom released his grip of the old axe clung onto so tightly to up until now. Without further word he regretfully conceded this mighty struggle for survival was surely over! Fortuitously the echoed bouncing sound of the old tool hitting the church floor was to awaken Tom's lost thoughts just long enough to remind him there was still one stick of dynamite in his possession. Then, in a foolhardy move taking all watching onlookers by complete surprise Tom defiantly stood forwards screaming 'I will never submit, never!' Suddenly then without warning and as if called upon by God's will inexplicably the old church's rustic front door burst wide open to allow the morning's rising sunlight directly in. Before a startled dark master of the night world could even blink an eye it was mercilessly overcome by an outbreak of sizzling spot fire skin burns! As more spontaneous flames broke out over the quivering sun exposed body of the startled beast it hurriedly initiated a forced retreat of survival! Spitefully though the vengeful beast attempted one last deadly swipe at the nearby dumbfounded Tom. Searching eyes swiftly turned to the church's doorway to observe an old Indian woman dressed in a ceremonial costume, reminiscent to that of the Great Plains medicine man of yesteryear. Clear of any immediate danger a fast thinking Shawnee scampered to the nearest lit candle then threw it to a waiting Tom who simultaneously ignited the dynamite's fuse while loudly shouting a warning of 'Get out now or you will die in this place!'

As Tom moved as close as he dare to the waiting maze of tunnels, pungent odors of natural gases escaping out through the broken doorway confirmed he was about to rid the unholy beast from this town for good! With dynamite lit and with all his might Tom enthusiastically threw the ready to explode stick of explosive into the mines main entrance tunnel! By this time nearly all the congregation had made a fast retreat with only Tom and a still disbelieving Reverend remaining as the last in line to escape the looming blast from hell! Having reached the front door of the frontier's house of worship Tom grabbed the Reverend's hand to unceremoniously dragged him away as far as humanly possible before the explosion. Moment's later, underfoot breaking ground angrily rumbled abound in chaotic and disorderly fashion. One further second later the crumbling earth below then began convulsions of rhythmic patterned waves across all visible ground. It was soon apparent these rumbling waves were only growing stronger in intensity with every passing millisecond! Below the town's main street the swelling fires of hell had fully ignited as next spontaneous eruptions of underground oxygen and natural gases instantly combined to create smoke laden geysers! Escaping bursts of ignited vapor regularly shot up as unceremoniously random parts of the town's fast decaying main street exploded up to the sky above!

Close to the ignition point repeating waves of disturbed ground rapidly swept outwards from the location of the fragmenting church. Soon after, accompanied by an ear popping shockwave arrived the deafening sounds of subterranean cave system in the final stages of a massive flameout! By now nearly all air in close proximity of the main street suddenly evaporated, making it hard to breathe! Any foolish notions of remaining upright were quickly dispelled as the spread of scattering people uniformly fell to the ground in a combined example of the massive explosion's reach! For reasons unknown only the Reverend remained on his feet, much to everyone else's disbelief. The town's namesake of Grave Yard Hill was officially in the process of explosive self-destruction! The realization of just how devastating this was going to be soon set into the minds of stranded town's folk awkwardly crawling on hands and knees while attempting a futile escape! Unbearable, the heaving sounds of obliterated earth and displaced rock grew so loud that many of the escapees ceased their crawling motion in preference to covering up pounded eardrums.

Next moment with an almighty pulsating thud the capitulated remnants of the old wooden church exploded out a thousand fragments high into the sky and onto Main Street at random discretion. The last remainders of church's ruins then disintegrated into a ramshackle of smoldering pieces. Simultaneously the shattering peak of the rumbling hill above also began to randomly catapult many of the town's historical headstones skyward! Increasingly powerful explosions of fractured earth and broken rock from the hill's peak combined with a regular burst of black as night smoke violently bellowing out to closely resemble a volcanic eruption! Thick dirt laden air freely rained down from the darkened sky to encrust the entire town within a blanket of hard to breathe ash. An vast occurrence leaving no person or building uncovered in its wake. Finally after a series of smaller but just as unsettling movements of the surrounding ground the last of the hills short sharp explosions finally arrived at a conclusion! The unimaginable event that was the demise of Graveyard Hill's main attraction was suddenly over. In all directions amidst continuously falling dust and debris a plague of congested coughing sounds of the township's survivors could be heard as desperately they gasped for much needed oxygen based air.

Sporadically timed aftershocks created the next wave of panic forcing most of the shaken survivors to instinctively dive back down to the ground with every slight tremor or shake of the earth underfoot. The resulting chaos spread like a spiteful airborne virus seeking to leave not one innocent soul unaffected. Cries of unrelenting terror quickly resonated from all parts of the dust clouded town. Burdened by an ever-present sooty black haze the town's folk were unable to properly view the full destruction of the hill's enormous explosion until well over an hour later. Once clear of any remaining structures, shell-shocked survivors silently huddled together until a well-defined view of the sky eventuated. Once certain that all immediate danger had surpassed the weary town's folk rejoiced in the fact that incredibly not only were they alive but remarkably with apparently no fatalities! Miraculously it appeared they all had somehow survived this inconceivable incident. Reunited with Shawnee and her Grandma Shee, Tom tried hard to avoid mentioning the fact that Jacob would have no way of surviving the massive explosion. An explosion of such powerful magnitude would have indiscriminately ripped its way through every single tunnel or passageway of Graveyard Hill. The rising black smoke associated with the hill's destruction continued its course upwards from what was now a scene reminiscent of an active volcano overlooking the shocked town below. Trying hard to maintain a respectful vigil on Jacob's behalf Tom awkwardly asked an equally somber Shawnee what was next? 'Do we tell the town's folk they have lost one of their citizens?

Do we tell our story and suffer the wrath of all the local bigots who would most likely seek out retribution or compensation of some form. Do we choose an appropriate time to celebrate the life of a good friend lost the secrets of the hill?' The growing list of unanswered questions seemed to just go on and on. Eventually a weary Tom tired from asking them all, besides, Shawnee was just as confused and concerned. She was noticeably unable to think clearly at this point. Shawnee was just eternally grateful to wise old Grandma Shee for appearing when she did! A few hours later most of the explosion's survivors slowly began to slowly disperse back into township life. Once home they would then share with their families the unbelievable story of how Graveyard Hill erupted into the sky above! After the very last stragglers of the survivors departed the scene a pensive Tom looked over to Shawnee and announced it was time to go home. Shawnee gently smiled, replying 'Our homes are now safe because of Jacob's selfless actions, he saved us all and no one will probably ever believe us when we tell our story'

Disparagingly kicking down at the dirt covered Main Street, Tom agreed just how crazy it all had been and would continue to be now that the deep felt loss of Jacob would always be with them. Standing side by side they allowed themself just one last regretful look up the top of the old hill, which even hours later was still constantly bellowing out a considerable volume of dark black smoke and soot. Then just as they were about to go their separate ways a rumbling movement about a third of the way up the ravaged hillside captured their attention. Unsure of what they were observing Tom and Shawnee curiously watched on as incredibly their lost friend appeared out from under the scattered rubble of the hills depleted apex! Covered from head to toe in dirt and soot it was a black as the ace of spades Jacob! One more look disbelieving finally confirmed it! Yes it really was the previously thought to be dead Jacob, triumphantly raising both fists boldly towards the sky above. He then loudly announced to the rest of the world that he too had also survived this harrowing ordeal! Overcome with joyful emotions a dumbfounded Tom and Shawnee found it hard not to start an instant barrage of questions to a wide grinning Jacob.

'It's really you!' shouted a delighted Shawnee as alongside her Tom announced to the empty town's Main Street their friend had miraculously defied the all the odds to come out on top! Bursts of flabbergasted laughter filled the street as now a trio relived the story of their fight for survival against far superior foes not of this world. The more they discussed the previous twelve hours events the more remarkable it all sounded! 'Will anyone ever believe the truth?' Tom asked. 'Well you are the official writer in this group' joked a smiling Jacob, feeling somewhat justified at the outcome of the writer's challenge he had so daringly issued to Tom. There was no denying this weird as hell experience would surely craft Tom into a superb horror author. Over the upcoming years he would frequently recall each and every mind blowing horrific aspect of their journey in the Vampire creature's hidden nightworld! 'Ok Jacob enough gloating! You have to tell us what really happened, how did you ever escape?' Feeling a little humbled to be in command of the situation a cheeky Jacob playfully stated he was having trouble remembering it all. 'Ah come on, spill the beans, what happened back in your tunnel' cried out a desperate to know the answer Shawnee. 'Ok ok you got me, I really can remember all the gory details!' laughed a relieved to be alive Jacob who was trying hard not to forget any important aspects of his upcoming explanation. 'Well after I yelled out to those evil bastards it instantly occurred to me I better get to running as far away as possible. Not long after I heard something like a dinosaur scream, I just sprinted for as long as I could until I was thoroughly exhausted and couldn't run another step. By then I was back at the big red glowing ceiling room at the end of the tunnel up top. I didn't know what to do so I just stayed put in the hope if you escaped you would come looking for me?'

Tom jumped in at this point and stated 'We wanted to man but there was so much going on we simply could not get back to you, we didn't even know if you were alive or what was going on? We had a pretty tough time avoiding having our blood drained by the whole darn lot of them!' ... 'It's ok Tom I understand and would have acted the exact same way if I were you in that tough situation' Anxious, Shawnee butted in 'Forget about us, what happened!' Laughing at Shawnee's obvious impatience Jacob once again began to share his remarkable story of survival. 'I couldn't believe it, I was so afraid and so exposed just sitting there under the gooey red glow of the ceiling. Then all of a sudden what must have been a flock of at least ten thousand bats flew past me then straight up at towards the red goo. But here's the strange part, it did not work for them? It was like someone or something had locked the gates, so to speak. One by one they just kept crashing into the ceiling then dropping to floor. Undeterred they soon took off again to try another time! It was sheer madness as eventually they all apparently died from exhaustion and injuries suffered from repeated attempts to escape the tunnel. I guess I should have figured out they were fleeing from something about that time, but I was in awe of the extraordinary sight I was witnessing. You know it's not too often you will see ten thousand bats hell bent of killing themselves while trying to escape! Astonished, Tom and Shawnee tried to fully picture the bizarre event in their minds. 'It must have been frantic' stated Tom, still trying to imagine the sight of so many furry little creatures constantly pounding into a ceiling unwilling to allow their exit' Shawnee added 'Natural instincts sure are strange sometimes, but unnatural ones are apparently even stranger!'

Keen to continue, Jacob quickly restarted his recollection in the hope of not missing any important details 'A while later I heard another scary roar from a dinosaur or some other kind of fricking huge creature? I distinctly remember it was so loud that it even shook the red goo above me! For a moment or two I thought it might all come down on me so I ran back into the tunnel. Although when I heard it again I ran back to under the goo, hoping it may miraculously suck me up and somehow save me? The angry roar was so loud by now I was positive it had to be in the same tunnel as me!' Turning towards the smoking crater up top of the hill Jacob continued on with his recollection of what happened next. 'I found it extremely hard to breathe not long after the angry screaming animal sounds finally stopped. For a little while I sure I would suffocate as I regularly started to gasp for more air! Then it happened' ...'What happened?' yelled an excited Tom who just dying to know the answer! 'Well I heard what seemed like a rumbling sound coming closer and closer to where I was situated but I couldn't go anywhere so I just froze like a helpless little baby. I knew whatever was coming up the tunnel was a game changer but there was absolutely nothing I could possibly do! So I just stood there waiting for what I truly thought was the end for me' Shawnee now excitedly grabbed at Tom's shoulder 'The explosion, it must have been the explosion!' slightly bemused by Shawnee's wise enthusiasm, a laughing Tom requested 'Let him finish this must be the good bit!' Again Jacob seized the opportunity to share the story.

'An large explosion sounds about right because suddenly a force so strong and powerful came surging directly towards me as then the last of the good air seemed to evaporate. I tried desperately to take another breath as next I found myself swirling all around the room like a light little feather caught in a strong breeze'

Unexpectedly Jacob stopped talking and took in a noticeably extra deep breath as if subconsciously he was back in the room, frantically seeking more oxygen to stay alive! 'I reckon that I must have been flung about in that swirling breeze for about ten seconds when all of a sudden I was forced upwards to the red goo in the ceiling. But here is the strange thing, unlike all the bats I actually entered the red stuff and found myself once more tumbling around head over heels for what must have been at least five more seconds. I was sure I would run out of breath before anything changed. Next up came the odd sensation of purposely being pulled out of the red sticky goo. It seemed to take over my entire body. One second later I was then flying through the air next to all the dead bats except it was me that was alive but unable to fly!' Tom looked to Shawnee who was equally enthralled by this part of the story. Jacob continued 'I remember trying to look down but it was impossible to open my eyes because so much stinging dirt was constantly hitting my face. I then felt my stomach seem to drop as now I guess I fell back towards the earth below. Then with an almighty thud I impacted the side of the hill I guess because that's where I woke up to see you guys standing there looking up at me' Laughing out loud, Tom turned to Shawnee then announced 'Wait until he hears our story!' Shawnee just shook her smiling face from side to side as a more than curious Jacob demanded to know all the details of their experience.

There sure was gonna be some strange stuff shared later on that night as they began to try and identify which of the debris covered pickups was Shawnee's? Later on after all the incredible details of survival had been shared over a few beers the trio parted ways. Although nothing was actually mentioned, it was obvious they all shared a bond that could never be broken! Being the sordid tale of survival at the hands of the Great Plains Master Vampire. The following day as the busy little town of Graveyard Hill began the arduous task of the huge cleanup. Reunited the trio once more ventured up the side of the hill in the hope of discovering even more revealing answers? Exhaled smoldering dirt, dust and other forms debris the ash cloud rising up from the newly formed crater at the hill's destroyed peak presented an eerie horizon to ascend. Coughing and spluttering from the dirty air around them finally the trio of travelers eventually reached their desired goal, the hill's peak! It was at this point on of the strangest part of the last day's events came into view. Unbelievably the only remaining graves were those that had earlier dragged the reluctant travelers to the dark world below? Disturbingly these three solitary remaining graves were suspiciously perched on what appeared as an unsupported rocky platform. Reaching out further to the crater's midpoint than all the broken ground around the newly formed crater. Its unsettling presence appeared completely out of sync with the surrounding crater's formation.

Almost as a well designed and purposely built dangerous invitation to any souls who would dare to venture out to its overhanging end. Unsure of this unusual natural structure's engineering integrity Tom glanced over to Jacob and Shawnee, then posed a daring question 'Do we?' A decisive answer was soon swung back at him 'Well, we have made it this far' as next they each took a slightly hesitant step forwards to the platform's waiting end. As they edged out further, varied sounds of crumbling rock and earth underfoot were heard amongst the rising ash. All rational instincts commanded a swift return to the waiting safety of the crater's edge. But the inspired trio remained staunch as ever so carefully they shuffled towards the three waiting graves precariously perched out over the crater's smoke covered bottom level. Having finally reaching their desired location at the end of the highly unusual gravesites eternal place of rest the curious trio then cautiously peered over the platforms edge. Unrelenting feelings of uneasiness crept into each of the trio's worried thoughts. Was something unknown hidden down below amongst the concealed smoke laden base of the newly formed crater? The mind blowing drama of their brave return to the top of the hill could not have been more apparent than at this moment. Suddenly from below and without any from of warning a solitary bat came screeching out of the rising dust at such a pace that the entire trio jumped back in unashamed fright! During the remainder of their short time on the platform not one word was spoken as silently all the mythical legends and scary tales of our mortal world were re-examined to be possible truths? Eventually after all searching thoughts of strange and twisted worlds beyond that of ours were exhausted the satisfied trio began their journey back down to the town. Arriving at ground level a silent Tom surged beyond his two travel companions who were now finding it a little hard to keep up the pace. Unsure of the situation? Jacob yelled out 'Tom what on earth is the rush?'

Committed to his running motion an increasingly far off Tom replied 'I'm going home to start writing!' Abandoning the chase to keep up with the leading out front Tom a laughing Jacob turned to an equally amused Shawnee then joked 'The things we do to help a friend' Later that evening as Tom's busy keyboard recorded all his inspired recollections of a macabre world born form the hill's darkness. He stopped typing then sat motionless while wondering if Jacob or Shawnee had also heard the lone bat at the top crater bursting into laughter as it slowly disappeared from sight?

Thanks for taking the time to read this ebook

