For The Moon

Chapter one, Dreams Of Sorrow

As Ziska and Wesley began their journey into the mountains of Afton, Wyoming, the night sky above them was a canvas adorned with celestial wonders. Ziska, ever the enthusiast of astrology, couldn't help but point out various constellations and share intriguing facts about the cosmos.

"Did you know," she began, her eyes twinkling with excitement, "that the Big Dipper is not actually a constellation, but an asterism within Ursa Major? It's fascinating how these patterns in the sky have captivated human imagination for centuries."

Wesley, captivated by Ziska's passion, nodded and smiled. "I love how you bring the stars to life, Ziska. What else can you tell me about the night sky?"

As they continued their ascent, Ziska delved into the mystical realm of astrology. "Look at the moon," she exclaimed, pointing to the glowing orb above. "It's in Taurus tonight, and you know what that means? Taurus is an earth sign, so it's a great time to ground ourselves and connect with nature. Perfect for a mountain adventure, don't you think?"

Wesley chuckled, enjoying the blend of science and mysticism that Ziska effortlessly wove into their journey. "I never thought stargazing could be so educational and romantic at the same time."

Ziska continued her cosmic commentary, sharing facts about the phases of the moon and its influence on earthly matters. "During a full moon, energy is said to be heightened. No wonder we feel so alive tonight, surrounded by the mountains and bathed in the moon's glow."

As they approached a clearing with a breathtaking view, Ziska couldn't resist pointing out the different phases of the moon. "Look at the waxing crescent over there," she said, her eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. "It symbolizes new beginnings and growth. Just like our journey into the unknown."

The night unfolded with Ziska seamlessly integrating astrology and moon lore into their adventure. However, as the dream transitioned into a nightmare, the celestial wonders lost their enchanting glow. The moon, once a guiding light, became an eerie backdrop to the unfolding chaos.

Despite the nightmares that awaited them, Ziska's earlier musings on the stars and the moon lingered in the background. Even in the face of adversity, the celestial knowledge she shared added a layer of depth to their harrowing experience, reminding them that, just like the phases of the moon, life had its cycles of light and darkness.

Ziska, her eyes fixed on the glowing moon, began sharing captivating facts. "The moon is not just a beautiful celestial object; it plays a crucial role in our lives. Its gravitational pull affects the oceans, creating the ebb and flow we observe as tides. The moon has a powerful connection with Earth's waters."

Wesley, intrigued by Ziska's lunar insights, contributed his own historical perspective. "Speaking of impactful events, did you know that during the Black Death in the 14th century, it's believed the pandemic was facilitated by fleas on rats? They were carriers of the bacteria Yersinia pestis, leading to one of the deadliest pandemics in human history. It's astonishing how historical events are intertwined with nature's intricacies."

Ziska nodded, appreciating the historical context. "Astrology, too, has a rich history. The zodiac signs we know today have roots in ancient cultures. The Babylonians were among the first to develop the zodiac system over 3,000 years ago. It's fascinating how our understanding of the cosmos has evolved over time."

Wesley, always eager to share his knowledge, added another layer to the conversation. "In the human body, the heart is a remarkable organ. It beats around 100,000 times a day, pumping blood throughout the circulatory system. It's like the cosmic center of our own personal universe, sustaining life with each rhythmic pulse."