Years later,
Nestled amidst Everwood, there stood a magnificent mountain called Mt. Mosila adorned with vibrant green trees and home to a diverse array of wild animals.
It was a paradise for nature lovers and hikers, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore its hidden treasures. This mountain had gained popularity as a hiking spot, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
However, as beautiful as it was, this mountain harbored a darker side. It boasted many off-track courses, which were known to be treacherous and perilous.
Despite the risks associated with these off-limits areas, the mountain still had an easily accessible hiking trail that families from Everwood frequented.
Parents would often bring their children for a memorable hiking experience, always adhering to the designated trail, marked by red paint.
While the authorities didn't station too many forest officers there due to its relatively short 3-hour hiking duration, a couple of guards were present at the entrance and exit points to ensure the safety of the hikers.
There was an air of mystery surrounding this mountain, particularly because it remained closed during the nights. The reason for this restriction was never disclosed to the public, leaving room for speculation and intrigue.
On this fateful day, a mother named Emra and her young son, Jay, embarked on a hiking trip to this very mountain.
Initially, they were supposed to be accompanied by Emra's husband and Jay's father, Detective Dew. However, due to an accident that occurred at Kilaya, a mountain 12 kilometers (about the cruising altitude of a commercial jet) away from the entrance, Detective Dew had to cancel their plans.
Despite his absence, he promised to eagerly await their return at the mountain's exit, armed with Jay's favorite toy and a heartfelt promise to cook dinner for his beloved family. With this assurance, the family reluctantly went their separate ways.
As Emra and Jay arrived at the mountain named Mosila, the little boy's excitement and curiosity grew even stronger.
Grasping his mother's hand, he eagerly led her towards the entrance, only to be greeted by an unsettling sight. The expected officer who should have been stationed there was nowhere to be found.
Emra's initial confusion gave way to a realization that the guard must have been attending to the accident, and she comforted herself with the thought that he would return once his duties were fulfilled. Observing Jay's exuberance, Emra decided to manually log their hike into the computer system, indicating their presence on the mountain.
Emra: (Excitedly) "Jay, look at this beautiful mountain! Isn't it amazing?"
Jay: (Eagerly) "Mom, I can't wait to see! Let's go, let's go!"
Emra: (Chuckling) "Hold on, Jay. We need to make sure we stay on the designated trail. It's painted red, see?"
Jay: (Curious) "Why, Mom? Can't we go off track?"
Emra: (Wary) "No, sweetheart. The off-limits areas can be dangerous. We have to follow the path the forest authorities have marked for our safety."
Jay: (Assured) "Okay, Mom. I'll stay on the red track."
As they embarked on their hike, a disquieting transformation began to take place in the sky above. Dark clouds ominously rolled in, obscuring the once sunny landscape.
Emra's growing anxiety and panic were worsened by her recollection of the weather forecast, which had promised a bright and sunny day.
Emra: (Observing the darkening sky) "Hmm, the weather seems to be changing. I remember it was supposed to be a sunny day."
Jay: (Anxious) "Mom, why is it getting so dark? Are we in trouble?"
Emra: (Trying to remain calm) "No, Jay. It's just a sudden change in the weather. Let's keep going and try to finish the hike before it starts raining."
Unbeknownst to her, in the chaos of her thoughts, she inadvertently let go of Jay's hand, and he wandered towards the off-limits areas of the mountain, driven by an inexplicable force.
Startled, Emra frantically called out for her son, realizing he was no longer by her side. She desperately reached for her phone to contact Detective Dew for help, only to discover that there was no signal. Left with no choice, Emra set off on a frantic search for Jay, fear gripping her heart.
Emra: (Frantically calling out) "Jay! Jay! Where are you? Answer me, please!"
Emra: (Panicking) "Jay, wait! Don't go further! Jay!"
YOU ARE READING
The Enigmatic Flowers of Everwood
HorrorSupernatural thriller that explores the depths of human resilience, the power of redemption, and the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. Through their shared journey, Sonora and Dew Ralphson must confront their fears, trust in one anoth...