Day 67: Keeping in touch...

     I slept well last night, despite the current circumstances... I was able to escape from the house, after having numerous close calls, and made off with my mining equipment, the map and compass, the stone, some food, sleeping equipment and other necessities. I then headed off East towards Jonas McElderry's house... I would be calling that "home" for some time until the situation near my house blows over... Although I got the impression it won't... The figure wants the stone to prevent people from destroying portals. THEROS will want me to go back to the dirt hovel in the far North West and destroy the two other portals in the strange pyramid beneath it... What would I do? I couldn't contact HoN Co. ever again because one of the guards smashed the PDA! I only hoped they got the message and sent someone over soon! I could revisit it in about a month and see if the guards were still there, but I doubted they would leave very easily.

     I woke up reasonably early, and proceeded straight to the East to go to the house that I found belonging to Jonas McElderry some time ago. All I had to do was find it again... I just wished I had located it on the map and ringed it. I had, however, ringed the other areas nearby that were of interest. For example, the stone beach, I knew, was South of the house... I could use that as a point of reference maybe. I had a quick breakfast, giving me time to plan out the day, and to get my head in gear. It was going to be a little tougher this time as I had Chiron in tow, however he seemed raring to go already! After finishing up, I packed the tent and the sleeping bag away and looked at the map again, with a ringed circle around where I guessed the house would be. It was more or less there...

     I would use the pools and cliffs as the major points of reference as from there it was a case of following the cliff around to the South, through a small tree line and then continue East to the stone beach. From there, it was North East until I found it. I would have to keep my eyes open just in case a guard or two had been dispatched to find me. I was willing to suspect that they would do anything to get the stone! If I possessed it, then I was a potential threat to whatever plan they are trying to create. If they have the stone, they can continue unheeded, in destroying Minecraftia, along with the lives of hundreds of innocent people! This is what I assumed anyway. Why else would they be so adamant to get hold of it? I pushed on towards the East, making it to the pools and the cliff in a record time! I decided to stay here for a bit and study the map a bit better. I wanted to see if I could go directly to the house rather than use so many reference points to get to it. With the reference points, I was taking the long way round, and I might not have the time to do that.

     Putting the map away, and using the compass, I continued past the pools and towards the cliff to follow it around to the South. I began to wonder about THEROS. They hadn't contacted me in a long time, but then again I hadn't been in any one location in a long time. Plus there had been that time I was inaccessible altogether! Maybe if THEROS knew I was in a single location, and safe from the figure, they may begin sending messages again... I had a feeling though it would involve going back to the dirt hovel... I hadn't managed to complete the job in destroying the three portals as I had gone back to get food whilst I waited for the stone to recharge. If THEROS told me to go back and finish the job, how would I be able to? The dirt hovel is a probably visible from the top of the tower where I was imprisoned! They were both to the West of the map, and the only landmass to get to it would mean going past my house again, and then the tower! Alternatively, I would have to make another boat, and then either row all the way to the island and walk the remainder of the way, or row to a small section of landmass that connected to the far West... In any case, I was in no mood to do anything for some time! As far as I knew, the figure would not check the house for me! If they thought I had just broken from my cell, then they would expect me to come home. Even if I didn't and wanted to go to the house of Jonas, I would have to pass my house anyway! The sun rose steadily into the sky, and it started to rain slightly. The rain was cool and refreshing, and took my mind from the current predicament I was in. I just wanted to relax without fear of being captured, tortured or worse... I eventually made it to the far side of the cliff and began to head East again, through the tree line and towards the stone beach. I didn't care about the quickest route now, I just wanted to get there without walking around aimlessly!

     The rain stopped a little after I got to the stone beach. It looked more or less how it had when I first discovered it, except for a few wild flowers, and animals. I took the map out again, and looked at the location where I had drawn a black circle. From where I was, I would have to walk more or less straight North East to the house. I put the map away, found North-East and began walking again. Chiron seemed to be having fun, although whether it was because I was back, or just the long walk I couldn't tell. He seemed to be healing up nicely; he was no putting more weight onto his paw, and would bound around every now and again. His face painted a picture of content anyway; he was constantly panting, and his tail never stopped moving! He was having the time of his life... If only I were too... After what seemed like a very long time, I saw the top of the tiled roof of the house over the top of the hill. Putting the compass away, I had a little race with Chiron to the top of the hill, and looked down at the house. Made it!

     I jogged the rest of the way to the house; I was already exhausted, but I knew I could rest once I got inside. I went around to the Northern entrance and went through the door. It was still shut from when I had left weeks ago, and the barricades were still in place from the missing windows. Chances are, this place was secure. I put the bag onto the bed and looked around the single room; it wasn't bad. It was small but it would provide more than I would need for a month or two. Obviously I would need to go out looking for meat and maybe try to grow a little wheat, but a month would probably fly by if I could occupy myself. If THEROS hadn't contacted me by then, I would assume that they I was dead... After all, there was no way for me to contact them... I didn't know where they lived, despite the guards at the prison thinking otherwise! I took the bag from the bed, and flopped onto it, not caring about the vast quantities of dust I had just thrown into the air! I was going to relax... Even if it killed me!

     I've been here for a few hours now, and the sun had begun to go down. I've attempted to mend the windows with glass panes, and I've replaced all of the torches with lit ones. The bed has been dusted, and I have moved a few things around. Looking in the chest, I found a few items of value that could be put to use whilst I was here. It wasn't like Jonas would be needing them... God rest his soul! I found a spare sheet buried at the bottom of the chest, and have decided to use this one rather than the current, moth-eaten one. I've a wealth of information to read about from the books on the shelves. Some in Latin, the majority in English. Most of them are about how to make the most of the resources in Minecraftia... Most of which I already knew! But it was nice to read about them anyway. It was a form of entertainment. Chiron has curled up near the furnace which I've lit to warm the room up and get rid of the damp that has set in over the years... He seems rather comfortable, and I might look at his paw tomorrow if I get the chance... Well, it looks like this place is "home" for the foreseeable future... I just hope they don't find us here...

Syeonyx signing off

Getting out before it gets too hot...

     It is almost painful waiting for the sounds of assistance! I sent the message to HoN Co. hours ago in the hope that they would just send a task force across via some air transport... I haven't heard any planes, helicopters or jets... I'm beginning to get worried, and I'm wondering if it's worth sending another message... Maybe... Just maybe, they were parachuted in and are coming in quietly... It was a long shot, but not entirely impossible. I could send another message requesting the same thing, but for them to contact me back, put the PDA on manual retrieval and scan for messages that have been dispatched but not received. It was risky though; I didn't know if the guards had any form of technical equipment with them... If they did, it was bound to pick up the message... Maybe there was something within the ship that could be used... It's been very quiet around here recently, so now was as good a time as any. I exited the engine room, and went to the navigation deck to look through the equipment. There was bound to be some form of communication gear around here somewhere! As I looked around, I became aware of a loud voice booming out commands! Worried that it may be nearby, I instantly ducked... But there was no-one around... No-one in the towers, on the wall or outside the gate...Where were they all?

     I carefully made my way around to the pier-side of the ship, where there was a ladder to the roof. Climbing it, I lowered myself onto my stomach and crawled closer towards the edge so I could see over the wall. I still couldn't see anyone, and I didn't want to risk being seen, but I could still hear the voice. It was definitely from a man of authority. I couldn't catch what he said, but I heard the word "trick" mentioned, and didn't like it one bit... What were they doing?

     I stayed on the roof of the ship for some time, trying to catch anything that the man said, but the wind and the sound of the waves caught almost all of it before it got to me! I climbed down, with a sick feeling inside. I HAD to find out what was going on! I went back into the engine room and packed some food, the map and compass, my dagger and the stone into a bag. I put the pickaxe and the shovel back into the chest in the supply room, and took out a few more arrows, adding them to the quiver over my shoulder. I helped Chiron up out of the engine room, and we ran towards the front of the ship, over the railings and towards the tunnel I had dug out earlier. I was going to have to use it to gain access into the mineshaft to then get into the house and find out what was going on. From then, I would be able to determine a course of action!

     I dug out the small amount of loose soil on the top to expose parts of the tunnel that hadn't collapsed. Taking off my bag, I put it next to Chiron and told him to stay put, out of sight and danger! He panted happily, but seemed to get the message. I turned and began digging the tunnel out again with my hands. It was easier this time, as the soil was loose and easy to move. After a few minutes, I had punched a hole through to the other side, and quickly made my way up the wooden stairs to the partially damaged barricade. The hole had been cleaned up, but there was no-one around, and I quickly passed through it to the other side. I eventually made it to the basement, where I was being very cautious! There could still be someone in here! I climbed the ladder and was careful to note if anyone had stayed behind. Once happy with the coast being clear, I made my way upstairs to the PDA. As i did, I heard the sounds of shouting again, followed by a roar of "Oorah!" from the guards! It sounded like there were a few! I set the PDA down and decided to check out the crowd. I climbed up onto the roof, and shimmied on my stomach to the edge. Only a few guards were down near the gate, the majority of them however were making their way to the other side of the area... What were they doing? They can't be moving out... Can they?

     What were they doing? I made my way from the roof back into the bedroom, where I picked up the PDA and began typing out a new message. Not long before I started, I heard a noise coming from the stairs, and a shadow began to advance towards the bedroom. Again, I took refuge on the balcony as I waited, hoping the guard wouldn't see me... The guard walked into the bedroom, whistling. I couldn't tell where he was, but I heard a grunt, followed by an almighty smash! What was that? The guard grunted, began whistling and walked away... My heart practically stopped beating! That had been close! The retreating footsteps began to fade, and I made my way back into the room... The PDA!!! It had been smashed!!! Now what was i going to do? I just had to hope that HoN Co. got the original message! I began to walk downstairs and was careful to note where the guard was. I needed more information! I went into the kitchen, crouched under the window, listening to the conversation the two guards were having. One of them, Pete, was explaining something to the other, mentioning something about a trap... I began to piece together the snippets of it together; I think they knew I was here! They were not going to look for me, but were going to sweat me out by pretending that they had lost interest! Most of the force was moving to the other side and hide within the forge, whilst a small team would stay at the front and remain out of sight! I wasn't safe! I had to leave... But where?!?! There was nowhere to go that they didn't know about! Except... I began to move towards the door, but a shadow fell across the hall. It was one of the guards! I froze! I took the bow from over my shoulder, and quietly readied an arrow... The guard stopped just short of the door... He was arguing with the other guard, saying he was hungry... The other guard had told him to stay put and have a break later, but Pete was insistent on getting some bread! I silently urged Pete to listen to the other guard, and to go back outside! I just needed a few seconds to creep back to the basement and escape! The arguing went on for some time, with Pete being stubborn! I started to sweat, and my hands began to ache in their prepared state! Eventually Pete gave in and began walking back outside, his shadow retreating with him! Phew! That was the closest break ever!

     Before heading back, I dove into the chest I stored the general things, and took them with me: the diamond shovel and pickaxe, the flint lighter, the sleeping bag and tent, and a few torches. I then made my way quietly back to the basement, where I knew I was safe and dry! I quickly ran the entire way back; down the coiled stairs, through the barricade and back up the tunnel! I knew they were not going to find me now! Most of them weren't even nearby, and the others were around the house trying to put me off and pretend that the house was secure... It's a good job I have beady eyes and super sensitive hearing! Getting to the top of the tunnel, I pushed the dirt back in and collected the bag of things and arranged it on my back. I had a long walk ahead of me, and the sun had begun to go down. It was either going to be a long night travelling, or camping somewhere less suspicious and travelling in the morning. It's a good job my tent is brown! I was heading East, back towards the place I found the stone. I was heading back to Jonas McElderry's house and hold up there for awhile... I hadn't received any more notes from THEROS, but if he had any sense, he'd know I was heading there!

Syeonyx signing off

Day 67: Most dangerous game of 'Hide and Seek' ever!

     Last night was the longest night of my life! I was stuck up on top of the roof from late evening to early morning! I couldn't sleep for fear that someone would come up onto the roof, and I couldn't move in case I made a noise. I spent the entire night lying on my stomach, out of sight, hiding behind the seat I dragged up there ages ago! Like I had before back in the cell, I read through my diary and messed around with the camera for a bit. After the initial shock of nearly getting caught had worn off, I became very bored. I was looking into the distance in different directions with the zoom feature on the camera! In the end though, the sun began to rise and the fear came back. With the sun came light, and the ever increasing chance that someone will see me! I waited as long as I could allow to ensure that no-one would catch me. As far as I could tell, the guards would mainly be in and around the house during the night. Escaping back into the tunnel would require more skill than gaining entry. And to make matters worse, I had to see if I could still dispatch the message I had begun... The guards couldn't have noticed otherwise I would have been caught by now!

     With a little less grace than Sam Fisher, I wiggled myself over to the hatch and stared down; there was no-one that I could see, and I was thankful this room had nothing of interest in it. After waiting a few moments, listening for any sounds, I opened the hatch and lowered myself inside. Instantly I lowered the latch and crept to the far side of the room, and hid behind a large chest. This was going to be my primary action whenever I entered a room, just in case. I waited there for a few minutes, hoping my breathing would slow and my heart would stop beating so loud! No-one came, so I crept to the door and peered round.

     There was no-one there either! Presumably they had all moved to the locations where I was most likely to gain access... Content with this idea, I kept the edge of caution in my movements and proceeded to the bedroom. As I got to the doorway, another theory came to mind; what if they knew I was here, and were guarding the exits? I really wish this hadn't sprang to mind as I instantly lost all confidence and had to fight hard to stop myself from going back to the roof! After a few moments trying to recompose myself, I entered the bedroom. Once again, I took the preliminary check of looking out of the window, onto the balcony: no-one there. I went to the corner of the room, and looked at the PDA where I had begun my message... It was displaying the screensaver, but when I clicked into it, the message was still present! The incomplete message was still there, along with the image attachments! Hadn't they found it then? This was brilliant! I cast the horrid idea that they were waiting from my mind, and sat down to finish the message:

7 attachments URGENT MESSAGE! REQUEST IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE! This is Syeonyx! I have irrefutable proof that I am attaching to this message, that I am not alone here! There is an evil group who are looking for me! I am in possession of a stone that can destroy active portals, and I believe it is that which they are looking for! I require full assistance from any forces you can dispatch by air within the next few hours! They need to be stopped before they find me and gain possession of the stone! If they do, then the portals can never be destroyed once activated! DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS MESSAGE! Repeat: I request a heavily armoured task force within the coordinates of my designated quadrant, to remove this threat from Minecraftia! DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS MESSAGE! SYEONYX

     I dispatched the message and re-enabled the screensaver. Putting the PDA back where it was, I went back to the door and took a look around the upper landing. There was no-one here at all! All I needed to do was get down into the basement and then down the coiled stairs to the barricade and I was home and dry! Then all I would have to do is wait for HoN Co. to dispatch a force to tackle them! There is no way they can accuse me of fabricating the truth now, I had picture proof that there were other people here with swords, and therefore an intent to harm! I've made it clear to them not to respond to the message directly, but to just send the task force. Any response would expose my plan, and me! I also left out my current hiding spot. If anyone decided to use the PDA, they may be able to recover the dispatched message and come looking for me. After a few moments of waiting at the top of the stairs, I slowly descended, careful to stop if I heard any noises. I got to the bottom and could see a shadow lying across the floor of the entrance! It wasn't moving, but I didn't want to spend too much time staying still. I quietly dashed into the weapons room and descended the ladder into the basement! Excellent! This was going better than expected! As I got to the bottom of the ladder, I heard voices, and footsteps! Without thinking, I ran into the treasure room and dived behind one of the chests! I sat there for a few minutes, hearing the steps grow louder as the guard ascended the coiled staircase... If I had ran straight down those, I would be dead by now! I waited, and then decided to pop my head up; just as I did, a guard walked past the door of the treasure room, and up to the house via the ladder! Phew! That was too close!

     I waited behind the chests for a full 10 minutes, expecting another guard to walk past... But it was quiet the entire time, except for the dull thuds of footsteps coming from above... I took the moment when it was quietest, and crawled out from behind the chests, trying to minimise the amount of noise I made. I then slowly descended the coiled staircase, having the advantage of seeing anyone below me through the glass pillar in the centre. I got to the bottom, but there was still no-one around. At this point, I nearly let my confidence get the better of me; I quietly ran forwards towards the mineshaft that led to the barricade, and subsequently, my improvised tunnel, when I stopped short on the stairs going down... There was a guard by the barricade! I didn't think they stationed guards there! The thought I had cast away floated back... Maybe they had found my message, and were waiting for me to slip up... I quietly backed up, hoping he hadn't seen me...

     What would I do? As I backed up, I was careful not to slip on the rails that lined the stairway. I had built it for efficiency so I could climb the stairs and push the carts at the same time. Then it hit me! That was a brilliant idea! I quickly walked up to the top where the track alternators were and saw a cart already loaded. As quietly as I could , I rolled the cart into position. With a lot of energy and effort, I pushed the cart down the steps, whilst I took a detour and went up the steps as though I was going to the surface entrance! I sat there for a moment, and then heard a crash followed by swearing! The guard came running up the stairs, shouting, and I took this opportunity to run down to the barricade. The cart had smashed a sizable hole in the barricade and then bounced back, still rolling slightly. I didn't wait, and quickly dived through the new hole! From here on out, I was practically free. All I had to do was get back to the ship's engine room and wait for the task force to arrive! I ran down the wooden staircase leading to the mine and up to the dirt wall where I had concealed the tunnel. After a few minutes of scrabbling at the earth with my hands, I made a large enough hole to fit through. My tools were still there, and when I was through, I blocked the hole back up with the shovel, before attaching it to my back along with the pickaxe.

     I knew this tunnel was going to be found sooner or later, so to prevent it from revealing my entry point, I started undermining the dirt walls, causing it to collapse. When I was near the top, I waited in silence for a few minutes, in case a guard was standing around nearby. After I was content that no-one was there, I punched a hole through to the surface and climbed out. The tunnel collapsed behind me, leaving a slight dip in the ground where the entrance had been. I had done it! Now all I had to do was get onto the ship! Provided that no-one was on that now...

     I climbed onto the beach and hid behind the mound of sand, expecting there to be guards posted on the outside of the gate again. Peering around however, I saw no-one... Where were they? Shrugging, I crept out a little further, and looked up towards the towers, but still no-one... Where were all the guards? They weren't in the mineshaft, the basement, the house or around the wall... Maybe they were expecting me to either exit or enter through the rear gate... Fools! Now wasn't the time to be cocky; I wasn't home and dry yet! After making sure that no guards were lingering around on the wall, I dashed to the front of the ship and hopped over the railing. I then cautiously descended to the lower deck, and then to the engine room. Made it!

     I've been waiting for a few hours and still nothing, although I had to take into account the time it takes for the message to transmit to them... Me and Chiron have been playing, but quietly, so as to not attract unwanted attention! I'm trying to ration the food, not knowing how long we'll be down here, and I'm tempted to get some more from the chest in the supply room a little later. I went up there about an hour ago to look at the guard status, and it seems it's returning to normal. A guard has been stationed outside of the gate again. I might go up to the crew's quarters and look for something to read. It's actually surprisingly boring reading about my own adventures...

Syeonyx signing off

I finally had a plan... Was it all for nothing?

     I think I have a plan! It's not a very good one, it has danger all the way along, and it may not result in anything happening, but it's worth a try. I need to get into my bedroom where there is the communication gear hooked up to HoN Co. . From there, I can send a message out to them, and maybe transmit a few pictures of what I had seen recently. That's if I get enough time... They can't possibly ignore this! A huge tower with a prison underground, and the figure in my house! If I could get a photo of them, then it would be a bonus, but the photo of the guards I took yesterday should be more than enough! However, to do all that, i first need to get into the house... I've thought about all the possible routes, and the only feasible one that keeps coming back to me is by digging a new tunnel, and hope I strike the mineshaft at some point. Chances are, they won't have destroyed the barricade I put up a while ago as they probably see it as a sign of whether I have gained access or not. If the barricade is not there, then I may get no further then the mineshaft... This is all purely theoretical however. The fact that only two guards were posted around the outside of the wall leads me to believe it is a small force, but I don't want to rely too heavily on that. I should assume that there is one around every corner, to ensure I am on edge at all times. I'm going to leave Chiron in the engine room; he's in no fit state to accompany me, and he may get over excited, or give the game away. I have to be cautious and quiet, so the tunnel I dig is going to have to be on the other side of the ship... Not an ideal location, but it'll have to do...

     I took a shovel, and a pickaxe from the equipment chest in the supply room, strapping them to my back, and hooked a sword through a belt loop. It was going to weigh me down, but it was better than going in defenceless. I took a few torches as well, seeing as though it was going to be a dark tunnel. I went up to the upper level, and onto the navigation deck to see where the guards were posted; there weren't any outside the gate this time, however one was posted in South-West tower. He was going to be an issue, but if I could time it right, then it'd make it easier if I didn't have to go swimming! I went round to the front of the ship, and leaned around the corner to see what direction the guard was looking in. He seemed to be looking out to the West, so I took the opportunity, and jumped the railing on the edge of the front end. I hid under the lip of the wall, just behind the large sand mound. The next bit was going to take a bit of skill. I would need to get into a position where I could see the house enough to estimate where to dig, but not too much so I was exposed... I peered around and up towards the tower, noticing the guard still looking to the West, and I bolted to edge of the land on the opposite side of the ship. So far, so good. I turned to look North, and from where I stood, I could just about see the top of the house... That meant the shaft would be a bit further to the East. Walking East, I took care not to move out of the cover of the ship. About... Here, would do it!

     I took the shovel from my back and began digging. I don't know about the noise to anyone else, but to me it sounded loud enough to be TNT going off! Every scrape of the shovel entering the earth put me on edge! Eventually I got to a few feet underground, and felt safer, knowing the dirt above me would trap a lot of the sound. After I had dug out a sizable hole, I went back to the entrance, and blocked it up so that I was encased in dirt! This would add excellent protection from escaping sound! I lit a torch, and placed it onto the ground a few paces back and continued digging until I hit rock. I put the shovel away, and changed to using the pickaxe, more conscious of the noise, now more than ever. After a few metres, I began to dig down a bit steeper to ensure I didn't accidentally cause my farm to collapse into the tunnel. Aside from causing a huge distraction, I'd more than likely drown as well! Also, the closer I was to the surface, the more noise the guards would hear... If there were any guards on the inside of the wall. After half an hour of hacking at stone, I pierced a hole in the final part of the wall and stopped dead! Light from the torches streaked through the hole... I had hit more or less on target! Before continuing, I waited... If the barricade had been removed, a guard could be anywhere along the mineshaft! If I made noise when too close to one, they would know something is up and come investigating... I waited approximately five minutes, but there was no sign of any life at all. I continued digging, but I tried to be quieter... After awhile, I had made a large enough hole to get through. Leave the shovel and pickaxe behind in the tunnel, I used a bit of spare cobble to block the entrance... No-one would find that! As I emerged into the mineshaft, I took a few moments to acclimatise myself with the area... I was surprised; I had hit the mineshaft practically near the start! Remembering the path of the tunnels, I ascended a familiar wooden set of stairs, and found the minetrack I had laid out ages ago! Following the track, sure enough it ended at a wooden barricade, still intact. Brilliant!

     I wanted to get through this in a way that didn't leave it open, and therefore suggestible that someone had got through. After a few moments of examining the barricade, I found a sufficiently loose enough section of boards which I began to rip out. After there was a big enough hole, I waited, just in case someone was on the other side of the barricade. After waiting a sufficient amount of time, I stepped through, and replaced the boards. That was another stage down. Now, just to get into the house! I began following the passageway that lead North up a long set of thin steps. At its peak, it branched off to go back the way it came, but to the surface instead whilst the other path continued North. Going to the house through the basement would be the quickest route, but as I got to the top of the steps, I saw a shadow appear near the base of the coiled staircase that led up to the basement! Thinking quickly, I retreated down the steps, this time taking a left turn to go up the stairs to the surface entrance!

     Before going through the door, I took a quick look to make sure no-one was there. I carefully opened it anyway and stepped outside and instantly heard voices! I looked to my right and saw a few guards standing around near the gate, and one against a wall! I quickly ducked behind the little alcove that had been made by creating the wooden staircase. This was a nice place to hide; it was sheltered from the elements, and the guards wouldn't be able to see me unless they stood in the greenhouse. I stood there for some time, partially waiting for them to look the opposite way, but mostly trying to guess when it was safe to go back into the mine and try to access the basement again!

     I waited for a very long time, just to be sure. The sun had begun to set in the Western sky, and I was worried I would be stuck in an awkward place overnight! Eventually I took the risk and went back into the mineshaft. I cautiously made sure no-one was behind me as I joined back with the tunnel, and that no-one was waiting for me up ahead. I couldn't hear any noise, or see anyone, so I took the chance, and silently sprinted for the coiled stairs. The entire time, I was scared that I would run face to face with a guard, or the figure, and just freeze up! Thankfully I didn't, but I took the precaution of hiding in my treasure room. I hadn't been in here for awhile! I waited a few minutes, listening out for any footsteps from above, but there was nothing. Maybe they had left the house and were searching the perimeter again... I decided to check, and ascended the ladder to the house. I peered through the hatch that hung over the ladder, and when I was sure, I jumped through to the weapons room I had blocked of awhile ago. I hugged the wall, my eyes darting around for any sign of a guard, but there was no-one. Brilliant! I just needed to get up to the bedroom and send the message. If no-one was upstairs, this was going to be so easy!

     I ascended the stairs carefully, and made it into my bedroom, surprised at the total lack of guard presence here. I kept low to the floor to make sure no-one could see me through the windows, and to keep my shadow low. I crept over to the keyboard, paying careful attention to the balcony. The one place I hadn't checked, but after looking through the bedroom window, I was satisfied that no-one was there. I took the keyboard and placed it on my lap as I faced the doorway leading to the stairs. If anyone came up here, I would hopefully have enough time to hide. I began typing the message, plugging my camera into the side of the mini computer. The images uploaded to the PDA, and instantly opened. I scanned them a few times, picking out the best, but in the end, I attached them all, and unplugged the camera. I then began the message:

URGENT MESSAGE! REQUEST IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE! This is Syeonyx! I have irrefutable proof that I am attaching to this message, that I am not alone here! There is an evil group who are looking for me! I am in possession of a stone that can destroy active portals, and I believe it is that which they are looking for! I require fu

     I stopped... I hadn't noticed until it was too late... A shadow had started to creep across the door... It had been silent... I was sure there had been no-one upstairs! From the right, the shadow lengthened. I quietly stood up, and backed towards the balcony door... The wood creaked far too loud for my liking, as I continued onto the porch... What would I do? Where do I go from here? Even if they didn't know I was here, they would read the message... GOD! Why hadn't I locked it!?!

     I managed to escape... I say escape, but I may have made matters worse... I managed to escape onto the porch, and with nowhere else to go, I climbed onto the roof using the railing around the edge. I've been lying down here for over two hours... It's pitch black except the light emanating from the hatch in the small room next to mine... It's a wonder that no-one has spotted me yet! Although it is dark... How would I get down?The next few hours until the early morning were going to be the most tense period of my life...

Syeonyx signing off

Day 66: Found the most epic of hiding places!

     I don't know what time I woke up this morning... I didn't even know whether it was morning. I woke up a little disorientated; surrounded by a low, glowing light cobblestone. Then I realised where I was, and what happened. I had found my way back to my house, but someone was up in the house, presumably waiting for me to make a stupid move of coming back... Well they were in for a long wait, I could be very stubborn! It wasn't the light that woke me up, or the time... It was the sound of digging. After the few moments of complete confusion, I became instantly aware of a scratching sound at the sealed end of the chamber. I had blocked it off yesterday with dirt and stone to ensure no light got out, but it appeared someone had found me! I didn't know what to do, so I let the fight or flight response take over! As there was no option to flee, I chose the next best thing, and took the small dagger in my right hand, and crouched on the floor, ready to pounce! After a few moments of waiting, the scratching became more erratic and, small streaks of daylight began to ease their way into the chamber. I readied myself for what may lie on the other side, when I saw a white paw... Instantly I knew who had found me.

     As soon as Chiron saw it was me, he jumped at me, licking my face! It was good to see him! I now knew that at least he hadn't been captured! Or worse... After calming him down, I stood up and peered out of the small hole he had dug out; the wall was still completely empty of guards, but I couldn't see over the other side. As I looked around, Chiron began to whimper... Turning around, I noticed that he was holding up a paw, rather than putting them both down before him. I rushed over, and instantly saw the splash of red against his white fur... Blood! Had they injured him? Trying to be gentle, I tried to push away the fur to get a look at the injury, but I couldn't see one... Was this even Chiron's blood? Maybe he had attacked a guard to the point where he had punctured skin... Or he had another injury elsewhere... I checked him over, and aside from holding up the one paw, he seemed in good health, and high spirits. I put it down to a sprain, possibly from getting away too quickly. I needed to find someway of keeping it steady, but I had nothing to hand. I would have something back at the house to deal with this, but I wasn't likely to get there... However, the ship was considerably more accessible, and they were bound to have a first aid kit on board! Even if they didn't they would have something I could use, and there was food. I told Chiron to stay put, whilst I removed more dirt from the entrance to make it bigger. I didn't want him following me, especially if he was injured. If I got into a tricky spot, he wouldn't stand a chance at running away very well. I left Chiron in the chamber while I dashed off to the closest wall, and hid under the lip. It was going to be another round of playing the sneaking game again...

     After a few minutes of playing it safe, and hiding under the lip of the wall for the entire time, I was nearing the beach area outside the front of the wall, near the front gate. This is where I had seen two guards outside of yesterday, and chances are they were still there. This meant I couldn't get onto the boat from the pier... The only other way meant approaching from the other side, but I couldn't get to the other side without going up to the house, getting onto the wall from the porch-access, and climbing down... Or going for a swim! The latter option was pretty much the ONLY option for me, but if it meant I could get some equipment and food, it would be worth it. I got to the end of the wall which faced the sea, and looked around the corner; there, as predicted, were the two guards that had been there yesterday. One was holding a sword, standing on guard, whilst the other seemed distracted by a piece of paper. I ducked back behind the wall, hoping they would be sufficiently distracted for me to get past. I went back up the beach a little, and found a spot I could use to get into the water without making too much noise. I waded in, and when it was deep enough, I began to swim. I got to the corner of the higher level of sand, and used the side of the wall to pull myself along. I then ducked under the smaller pier near to the edge of the shore, and got back to the wall again. I trod water, whilst trying to catch my breath; this next bit was going to be tricky...

     If I was to swim on the surface, I would make too much noise, or I would be spotted, so the only course of action would be to swim underwater until at least the pier. From there, I could swim underneath it to use as cover. Then it was a case of hoping the pier provided enough cover until I got to the end of the ship and was able to get to the other side. Preparing myself mentally, I took a few deep, but quiet, breaths, and then plunged deeper! After a moment of disorientation, I began to swim towards the wooden struts I could make out that marked the pier. From beneath the surface, I could also see the original hardwood struts that had made up the original pier, and angled myself towards them. After about thirty seconds, my lungs began to ache, but I made it beneath the pier, and I surfaced. Careful not to make too much in the way of noise or waves, I also concentrated on not banging my head! I then used the struts, and the wooden pier to pull myself along its length, until the end. I then hugged the ship the entire way around for the last bit until it took a sharp turn to the left, where the back began. After I got round here, I let out a sigh of relief. But I wasn't out of the danger zone yet; I didn't know if they had posted any more guards along the exterior of the wall, so I swam gently to the shore and climbed out. I popped my head up, and looked around, but there was no-one on or around the wall, not even in the tower! Wow! These guys were terrible! I sat there a moment, catching my breath, before climbing onto the beach, and hiding behind a mound of sand. I tried to remember why I had piled the sand up like this, thinking that it might have been a way to gain access to the wall. Then I remembered it was the ship that had done this! Very handy!

     Now all I needed to do was get onto the ship from the other side without being spotted... Simple(!) I peered from over the top of the sand; the guards were still distracted. In fact, the one guard with the paper had seemed to involve the other guard, and they were both staring at it. Now was my time. I rushed out from the sand, and lowered myself onto the side of the boat so I was hanging off the edge. I then proceeded to walk my hands to the left, with my entire body dangling above the water, to the steps where I could gain access! It took a few minutes because my fingers felt like they were on fire! Afterwards, I used what energy I had left, and pulled myself, rather ungainly, onto the open deck. Worried I had made too much noise, I quickly made my way down the stairs to my immediate left, down into the crew's quarters and supply room. This is where I wanted to be anyway. This is where I would find the equipment I would need to survive. Going over to the ships provisions, I took out a loaf of bread and began tearing away at it voraciously! I hadn't realised how hungry I was until I tasted the sweet taste of that bread! It was the most delicious thing I had ever eaten! Finishing it, I sat down on the deck, feeling a little stuffed. Then I saw, in the corner, the hatch I had jarred open to access the engine room. There! That would be a perfect place to hide; right under their noses! It was so obvious they would never look there! I just needed to get Chiron back here quietly and it'd be done!

     Looking around for something to carry the stuff in, I eventually found a leather bag in one of the chests in the crew's quarters. That would be perfect! I then put a few bits of meat into it, along with some bread, and a few bottles of water. Looking around again, I quickly found a first aid kit, and added it to the bag. I had enough equipment to make a return journey, and get Chiron back on his feet... Well paws. As I was about to ascend the steps, I remembered that one of the chests had contained weapons and armour. After another look around, I found the perfect weapon for me. In the bottom of the weapons chest, was a bow and a full quiver. Brilliant! Now I could protect myself if needed!

     I took half an hour making a quick, but quiet return journey back to the chamber. Chiron was still there, although lying on his paw this time. I set the bag down, and took out a bandage. I didn't know how to apply it, so I did it in the only way I could think of, and ensured that the paw couldn't be twisted in the position I set it in. Once Chiron was bandaged up, I gave him a porkchop, whilst I sat and had a drink of water. It was tiring work, but if I pulled this off, I would be closer to getting access to the house, and maybe finding out who was in there... Although, I had a pretty good idea... After Chiron was done with the porkchop, I put the remains in the bag, and extinguished the torches. I didn't want to leave any trace of me or Chiron being here otherwise they might find us... Going back to the ship proved more difficult than expected. Chiron seemed to think we were going on an adventure, and kept bounding off! He was liable to give the game away if he wasn't careful. But after a few minutes of realising I wasn't up to playing around, he settled down, and followed my lead. He was actually pretty stealthy! When it came to hiding under the pier, he dove all the way under the water, and beat me to the pier! It was almost as if he had done it before... Either that, or he knew what I was planning. Once we had got back onto the shore on the other side of the ship, I wondered how I was going to get Chiron across to it... Before I could figure anything out though, he had made up his own mind, and ran towards the edge of the ship that met with the beach. I watched as he squeezed himself between the bars of the railings on the main deck... Clever! He sat just out of sight of the guards, whilst I hopped over the railing; the guards were thoroughly engrossed in the piece of paper at this point, and were both facing away. I led Chiron down the stairs, and managed to help him into the engine room. I left the bag with Chiron, and went back up to get some food and other equipment, such as lighting. The engine wasn't running anymore, so the lights had gone out. Before heading back down, I climbed to the upper deck, and to the navigation deck where I could look out of the large, glass cabin and see across the wall. The guards were still busy near the gate; one of them saying "No, we were here!" and pointing to the paper. It must be a map... Looking back at the house, I couldn't see any activity, but I knew someone was in there... I didn't have a plan yet, but I was in a better place to come up with one. The ship had equipment I could use to get through if needed!

     It's been about an hour since I moved me and Chiron to the engine room of the ship... I have yet to come up with a plan, but I had an idea what might be good. If I could get access to the mineshaft beneath the house, I would be able to move freely. Especially as most of the mineshafts were boarded up after I was worried about the security. If they were still in place, they would know I hadn't come through them, and it would be perfect for me to quietly and easily gain access. All I needed to do now was gain access to the mineshafts from the surface... Well, there were a few pickaxes and shovels on board!

Syeonyx signing off

Day 65: Nowhere is safe...

     After yesterday's amazing jail break, I felt very enthusiastic today, even if I had to lie low the entire time. Every corner I came to, I crept around to ensure no-one caught me off guard. Despite all these precautions, I didn't meet anyone the entire day, which was a relief actually... If only I could go home...

     I woke up with the sun! Hiding in a cave facing East was an excellent idea, as it ensured I would get a good start on travelling. I didn't know if they had been looking for me, or if they even knew I had gone! Chances are they did, and so today would be another stealthy mission! I knew it was a bad idea, but I needed to get home, in the hopes that whoever had captured me was not aware of where I lived... But that was unlikely. I'm worried about Chiron, now... I hope nothing bad happens to him... Although if he sees someone coming who he doesn't recognise, I hope he'd treat them as if they were an intruder, and attack them! Although this may not be such a good idea... I didn't have much in the way of equipment with me, except the stuff I recovered from the chest... Then I thought back, and remembered the book that had also been there... Why hadn't I taken it? It was stupid to leave it behind, and going back in to get it was a very stupid idea... It didn't really matter, but the stamp that had been placed on the front of the book set alarm bells ringing in my head... But I couldn't remember why... I had seen it before, but I couldn't place where! Gathering up my things, I pushed it from my mind; today I was going to need to be on top form if I was going to outwit some guards... If there were any to outwit!

     Before setting off, I wanted to try and get my bearings. I exited the cave, and looked all around for any sign of guards, but there was no-one around... The strange tower that I had partially climbed stood to the West of my little cave, and I wanted to take a full photo of it before I left. If I could contact HoN Co. and tell them about THIS! If they ignored this... Well, that depended on whether I could even contact them... For all I knew, there could be guards wandering around my house right now!

     As I finished with the photo, I carefully went down to the waters edge and took a drink. I didn't know when I would get the chance again, and I was so dehydrated from the lack of food over the past couple of days. As I stood up, I noticed a small, strangely shaped island of sand just to the North of the tower... Realising that I had seen that shape before, I looked at the map, and realised that I had seen it from the map! Down int the bottom-left corner of the map was the strangely shaped island, and therefore, the tower just to the south! That meant I was just slightly East of it, and I knew where I was! I was assuming though at this point, but anything to cling onto that might lead me home was enough! If I was were I thought I was, then technically it was a few hours walk East to the outside wall of my area. Instead of going through the mainland, if I skirted the coast along the North, I should get there faster!

     Before setting off East however, I wanted to make sure that I was heading in the right direction by comparing my position with the map. This meant scaling a tall cliff or hill, and looking for other features that appeared on the map. It wasn't long before I found a large cliff that would serve as an excellent vantage point to scope my position. However, scaling it took quite a while. As with the other cliff further East, it didn't have an easily accessible place to go to the top. I eventually found an accessible place to scale the cliff, after walking around for five minutes, all the while, I was trying to ensure I didn't get spotted by anyone! After half an hour, I made it to the top, and using the compass, I looked out towards the Eastern side of the land to look for noticeable landmarks. I would hope that something would appear on the horizon, or closer, that would coincide with the map. As I looked out across the Eastern area, I saw nothing that coincided with the map at all, except a small island near to a beach I couldn't tell if this was the same island, but at least it was a start, so I decided to choose that direction.

     Using the same way to climb down, I quickly found East and decided to stick to the Northern coast, as stated. It would be easier to note which direction I was heading in without constantly referring to the map and the compass, and chances are I was unlikely to be found. If they were looking for me, they probably thought I would go into hiding amongst the trees. I wasn't entirely confident with that assumption, but if I saw anyone, it would be easier seeing them, than if I was hiding within foliage. If the direction I was heading in was accurate, it would take about two to three hours to get to a location where the wall would be visible. I wasn't really interested in how long it took, as I was mainly concerned about getting home. I kept a watchful eye for anything that might give my position away, taking care to walk as quietly, but quickly as possible. This was surprisingly easy as I was walking on sand most of the time, however I was careful not to leave footprints, by walking on dry sand. As I continued, it occurred to me that dry sand would still give my position away, so I began walking on the grass, in the hope to confuse them if they were following me. It was a little noisier, but the area had opened up, and the tree line had shrunk back considerably. Despite being on edge the entire time, and ensuring I kept my eyes and ears open, I was still able to let a small amount of my mind drift off into random thoughts, however the only one that kept coming back was that stamp... I KNOW I had seen it before... It was so familiar... In the depths of my mind, I fished for the answer, but came out with nothing... It was in there somewhere... All it would take is a little time... Or maybe seeing something that related to it...

     After two more hours of walking, I came to a slight incline that lead South. Navigating it, I came around the other side, and saw what I had been hoping to see for a long time!

     I had found the wall! That meant the house - and Chiron - were just over the other side! Despite taking precautions about where I moved on the way to here, the moments from now on would be the most crucial. If anyone was here, then I would need to be extra vigilant. I couldn't hear anyone, and I couldn't see anyone, but it was unlikely they would post anyone on the outside of the wall. If they did this, they were liable to scare me off before I got close enough! I hoped I was smart enough to see this being the case. I could be overreacting! There might not be anyone here! Whoever captured me might not know where I lived... But if they had followed me, then it was likely they would soon find out. Regardless, it was better to overreact and laugh about it later, then be lax with my attitude and get caught! Before getting too close to the wall, I tried to analyse the best course of action. The back gate was still locked, and even if it wasn't it was likely to be guarded. The front gate would also be guarded, and with the HoN Co. ship being there, it was likely there would be guards on both sides of the front gate! That left one option: the secret entrance. I could get to it, into the tower and survey the area from relative secrecy. But getting to the entrance would mean being completely exposed for a few minutes. If they had posted anyone on the walls, the best place to move would be under the small lip of the wall that ran the entire length of each side, both internally and externally. It was wide enough to hide under if someone looked down, and would also prevent my shadow from being seen! Putting the plan into action, I sprang from my hidden position, and instantly leapt under the lip of the first wall. I hadn't seen anyone walking along the walls, but the risk was not worth taking. I ran along the far Western wall to the South, until the beach began, and the wall took a left turn. I stopped at the corner, and peered round to see if there was anyone on the wall that ran perpendicular to the wall to the left. Noticing no-one, I ran around the corner, and sprinted the entire way to the corner where the two lips joined. I was nearly there!

     I could see the entrance from here, but if anyone was on the wall, it was then that would most likely see me. Using the lip for as long as possible, I jogged along the wall until I was standing in front o the entrance. Looking left and right, I jumped forwards, removed a board and then dived into the hole! I then replaced the wooden board, with cat-life reflexes! I was surprised at my own athleticism! Although it was possibly due to the situation that I was performing as I was. From here it would be a cinch, until I tried to access the tower. If someone was already in it, the plan would fail immediately! I was just glad I had installed the trapdoor with the holes in it, so I could see beforehand if anyone was there. Climbing the ladder, I did so as quietly as I could, until I reached the top. I peered through the holes, looking for any sign of anyone, but there was nothing to indicate so. Carefully, and quietly, I raised the trapdoor, and climbed through. Staying low to the floor, I closed the trapdoor, and looked out across the two walls. There was no-one there! Then I stopped. I could hear voices... Looking over the edge of the tower, onto the beach side near to the ship, I saw two people, who were dressed in the same clothes as the guards, when I was back in the cell. They were here? Already? Admittedly I had slept the night, but that was fast. It made me wonder what else they knew about me. I looked towards the house, hoping that no-one was there, but in the window, I saw a shadow... A familiar shadow... The figure was in my house! Instantly, I began scanning the immediate area for Chiron, but he was nowhere to be seen... What had they done to him? A seething anger began to boil inside of me, and I had to put a lot of effort into stopping my emotions take over, and began running towards the house! This would get me, and Chiron, nowhere!

     I sat in the tower, with my back to the house, for a long time. No-one saw me, but I knew staying here would mean getting caught sooner or later. I didn't know what to do! They had Chiron! They had found my house and were guarding it! What had I done except help THEROS destroy a series of things that were obviously evil?!?! I was so confused... But even with this fresh information in my mind, I still kept thinking back to the stamp on the book... I HAD seen it before, but I couldn't figure out where... Was it even of relevance? Knowing I wasn't safe in the tower, I shook the thought from my head for the millionth time, and descended the ladder... Where would I go now? There was nowhere safe nearby, but then again I couldn't be sure if ANYWHERE was safe anymore... The only place I could go was... I stopped and thought about it... It was perfect! Rushing down the rest of the ladder, and up the tunnel, I made sure I was careful and quiet removing the boards, replacing them and running back beneath the lip of the wall. The strange mossy cobblestone chamber I had found back months ago! It was the perfect place to hide out! It had a strange cage inside, but I could make short work of that, secure it with dirt or something, and hope that some of the torches were still working from when I put them up! I got back to the portion of the wall I had been when I first saw it. Now it took an immediate turn to the right, but the lip continued the entire way along. I sprinted underneath it the entire way until I got to the corner and then made sure the coast was clear. Another corner and I was there! I rushed up the strange steps that had been worn away, to find a pitch black chamber except for the light emitting from the cage in the centre of the room. I entered the chamber, hoping nothing was in here, and felt along the wall for a wooden torch that had burnt out. Eventually finding one, I shoved it in through the bars of the cage and waited until it caught fire, and then put it back on the wall. The flickering yellow glow filled the room eerily, but it was enough light to see by for the moment. Any more light and I might give my position away. I went back outside and found a large rock, and went back in and smashed the cage flat! As with the others, once the cage had been opened, the skeleton inside disappeared in a flash of light, a puff of smoke and a horrid sawing noise! Worried that the flash would alert anyone looking in my direction, I took the strips of metal from the cage, and used it as a crowbar to cause a small landslide! After a few minutes of poking and pulling, I had made enough dirt fall into place to cover the hole that had been there. I then took the other torch sticks and re-lit them using the already lit torch. It didn't matter how much light was made now, I was secured!

     I don't know how much time has passed since blocked the hole, but it was nearing midday when I got here! I didn't really mind that half the day was being missed... To be honest, I needed the time to relax, rest and get my head into gear! What was the next course of action? I didn't know what to do... I only had a small dagger, the strange stone, the map and compass with me... That, and the small strips of metal from the cage, and the wood from the chests that had been here since I first found the chamber! Maybe I could put them to use! I would have to wait though. For now, I was getting some well needed rest! If only I had some food... Maybe getting to the ship is the first plan of action tomorrow...

Syeonyx signing off

Day 64: I'M FREE!!!

     Today is the day I broke out of wherever I was! I was able to sneak from my cell without anyone being the wiser, until it was too late! What I achieved was something akin to Sam Fisher or James Bond! And to top it off, I think I know who was keeping me prisoner...

     As I had predicted, not eating the food they had given me had allowed me to gain my full strength back, as backward as that sounds! Whatever they were doing to the food was designed to keep me submissive by ensuring I suffered! Numerous guards had walked past my cell, and every time I had to put an act on to look like I was in pain. This usually meant either lying there in a huddled shape, or looking like I was unconscious! The satisfied grunts that came from them seemed to indicate that they had been fooled, and it was simply a case of picking my moment! I had an idea how to escape, and it was a lot more passive than simple stabbing someone with an improvised wooden shiv! The source of the smell that had plagued my nostrils since I awoke in the cell had actually been the root of my escape! I spent an hour or so, monitoring the times that the guard would walk past my room, and up the corridor. I had it down that I would have plenty of time to slip away, as long as he was kept fooled. I wasn't expecting it to work, but in the hopes that it would serve as an adequate distraction, I arranged the sheets on the bed in a fashion which hinted someone lying beneath them. I then tested this by hiding in a corner and waiting for the guard to pass from ahead and turn right. That way he would look in, see the covers, assume I'm there and not see me hiding in the corner against the door! I couldn't believe it when once again, the guard huffed with a smug sense of satisfaction, and proceeded along the corridor. Still sweating from waiting anxiously, I chose the moment right, and dived, feet first, into the murky water that flowed through the hole in the corner. The next bit was going to get messy...

     Not really knowing which way to go, I tried to fight back the wave of nauseousness, as I bobbed around in the filth! It wasn't as bad as I thought, due to the lack of other captives, however it wasn't entirely clean either! I eventually decided to go in the direction of the current, in the hopes it would lead to a vent, or a drain or something other than a tunnel full of sewage water! I swam with the current, trying to keep my head above water... The smell was almost unbearable, but I struggled on, knowing this was my one chance. If I lost consciousness, I drowned! If I cried out, I would be found out, and I wouldn't get a second chance! For what seemed like hours, but in reality was actually mere minutes, I continued along the tunnel, until I noticed the current begin to slow, and I saw a light up ahead. Not knowing where I would end up, I slowed myself down by putting my palms against the walls of the tunnel, and used the friction to slow myself down. I slowly bobbed about at the end of the tunnel where it ended rather abruptly with a drain! A large room built around it accommodated the water - and the smell - but it wasn't forgotten, as a solitary torch stood against a wall. Checking to make sure no-one was around, I released my grip from the walls and drifted onto the drain. I climbed out, trying to stifle a cough that was working its way up my throat. I sat in the corner of the room, away from the drain to catch my breath, some clean air and hope that I would dry enough to not leave huge puddles around for the guards to follow...

     After a few minutes of sitting there, trying to get my head in gear for the next stage, I tried to think about what would happen if I escaped... Where would go? I don't have the map, and even if I did, how would I navigate? I'd need to locate my position before I could do anything! I got up and walked to the far side of the drainage room where a series of steps lead to a narrow doorway. I stood in the shadows, and listened, trying to hear if there were any footsteps, but there wasn't a sound except my laboured breathing and the running water splashing through the drain. As I peered out, I couldn't see anyone to the left or right corridors, however I saw two things that caught my attention. To the right was a set of metal gates which led to a stairway... A way out maybe? Ahead of me on the other side of the corridor, was a wooden door. Inside I could see burnished metal, and I thought back to yesterday, and where I had been... Could this be? Waiting a few more moments to ensure the coast was clear, I crept over to the door and peered in. Inside was a small room with a chest a table and a chair. It had a doorway which lead to a much bigger room. Opening the door silently, I went inside, and looked through the second doorway. Inside was a huge metal room with no items except a clock and a stool. This was the room I had been to yesterday, or should I say taken to!

     There was no-one in the room, but I didn't to take the chance of someone being on the other side of the glass. I was about to leave when the chest caught my eye. I opened it, expecting to see strange devices and papers etc. But inside, surprisingly, I found my gear! There was the map, the compass, the small dagger and the stone! They had confiscated it, and left it in this chest! I quickly took them up, rolling the map up for convenience sake, and then I noticed something odd... A book with a stamp on it that I recognised from somewhere... I was about to take it when I heard the same whistling again, and I closed the lid of the chest. Oh well, it probably wouldn't matter too much anyway. This was brilliant, though! I had found my stuff! I though I would never be able to get back because of the lack of a map and the compass, but now I could! All I had to do was escape... Easier said than done. I peered out into the corridor again, noticing a sign above the doorway I had just come. It said "Sewage Outlet"... Well that made sense. Turning around and looking up, I noticed that the room I had exited also had a sign which said "Interrogation Room"... Well... I don't know what to say about that... Trying not to get too distracted, I turned to the left and ran quietly to the gates. They were cast iron, and they seemed to be locked from the other side. As I looked through them, I noticed that at the top of the stairs a light shone down... That was daylight! Looking at the wall, I noticed a small lever just on the other side of the gate. I outstretched my arm to try and reach it, but to no avail. I was about to try and get it open by holding the dagger and stretching out again, but I heard a whistling, and footsteps, so I backtracked a short while and hid behind the doorway of the sewage outlet room... The footsteps stopped, I heard a short chuckle, and they began again. I doubted that he would come down into the sewage outlet, so I thought it would be the best place to hide. I waited for what seemed like hours, for him to walk towards me and hopefully turn back around. I peered into the edge of the doorway, and quickly shot back in as a shadow passed by in the corridor...

     The footsteps and the whistling stopped again... A short silence... And then a confused "humph" noise... What was going on...? I waited an for what seemed like eternity, hoping that the guard wouldn't know I was here, or hear my thumping heart! Eventually, he let out a sound of dismissal and then the sound of a door closing... The whistling began again, and the guard turned around to go back up the corridor... When he was out of range, I let out a breath I had been holding for a very long time... I had nearly been found out... A simple mistake... I had left the door open to the investigation room... Luckily it seemed this guard was as stupid as the ones from the films... Either that, or has the least observant person ever! I waited for a few moments, and then exited the room, turning left this time... I was going to have to follow the guard, and hopefully find places to find along the way. I continued down the corridor until I came to a right bend. Looking to my left, I immediately identified my cell... Looking in, I noticed how convincing the sheets were... Rather proud of myself, I pushed on along the corridor to the right. Then again I heard the sounds of whistling and footsteps... Thankfully almost every cell along the way was open, and I ducked into one at the last moment... I sat in the corner on the left side of the door, so there was no way he would see me unless he entered the cell... I just hope he didn't close the door... I held my breath and closed my eyes, willing my heart to stop beating so loud!

     The whistling passed me... Then there was the usual huff of satisfaction, and the continuation of the whistling. I took this chance, and went around to the corridor to the left. The cell I had hidden in appeared to be one of the first here, because to corridor continued for only a few metres after that, and then turned left. I edged round the corner, expecting to see guards or other people, but there was nothing... What place is so badly patrolled? Then again, how often was this place used for it's intended purpose? Taking the opportunity, I continued down the corridor until I came to another iron bar door. This time however, the lever was on my side. Flicking it up, the door swung open. As I passed through, I thought about the guard, and realised that he wouldn't be stupid enough to ignore this open door. Before continuing, I leaned through the doorway, and pulled the lever down, causing the door to swing back. Satisfied, I went up the corridor where another iron door stood, with the same layout. Opening it, I did the same thing to close it. As I got to the other side, I noticed a series of steps going up. Ascending them, the thin passageway ended abruptly with a ladder leading to a hatch. I climbed to the top of the ladder and peered through the slits in the hatch. Confident no-one was there, I forced the hatch open and climbed through. I then put it back into position and stood up to survey my surroundings. I was near the surface; I could hear running water, and there was natural light streaming from either end of a passageway I had entered. My attention was broken however when I noticed another ladder leading up! There were two ladders, one on either side of the passageway, set into a notch in the wall. Looking up into the notch, I noticed no-one coming down... With me being the inquisitive type, I ascended the ladder to the top. Once again, the ladder ended with a hatch, which I opened once I was sure the coast was clear. When I emerged from the ladder, the wind hit my face, and I inhaled deeply. Ah, fresh air! I was outside, and from the looks of things, in a small tower... I looked up and saw another staircase that continued up, but I couldn't see what it went up to. Instead, I look outwards, to the East according to the compass, and surveyed the area. I didn't have a clue where I was...

     As I was trying to get my bearings from the surrounding area, I heard voices coming from above, and realised that someone was descending the ladder from above. I quickly got back onto the ladder to descend back into the passageway, accidentally slamming the hatch as I went. I heard a voice shout out to see if anyone was there, and I made haste down the ladder before anyone found out I was there! As I got to the bottom, I became aware of a voice coming from below... It was the guard who kept walking past the cell... He had heard noises from above and had begun to climb the ladder to the hatch to the passageway. Without thinking, I bolted to the left where an iron door stood. A small button set into the wall was the only thing that caught my interest, and I pushed it! To my relief, the door swung open! I bolted out of the place, however I was careful to take a photo of the place I had just emerged from...

     The tower that I had ascended extended way above where I had been. So much so that some parts were obscured by the cloud layer! What was that place? Who was there, and who did the guards work for? Was the figure really this organised to have people working for them? Knowing that these questions would never be answered by standing there, I decided to run now as fast as I could. Taking the compass out, I had a good feeling about running East, so I found it and ran! I kept running until I ran out of breath, and the tower was shrinking away into the distance... But what stopped me running was something I found... It was of no significance, but simply another way I could have exited that place... Before me stood a cobblestone entrance with cast iron gates blocking the path... Looking down, I saw another set of gates... The ones I had tried to get through... It's a good job I went the way I came otherwise I might have got trapped by this set and been caught!

     I ignored this and continued to the East, hoping I would stumble across something... If not, I would lie low somewhere until it was safe to get a good idea where I was... Continuing East, I saw nothing that looked familiar, and nothing that correlated with the map... I may have gone the wrong way...It didn't matter at the moment. I was away from that place... I had escaped... It began to get dark, and the I didn't want to be wandering around at night without any form of protection. I quickly found a small cave, which, with a bit of work, I managed to block up one end of to prevent them from seeing me... I sat at the Eastern end of the cave, keeping an eye out until the sun went down... If they knew I had escaped by now, they would be looking for me... After all, if they wanted the stone, they would have to find me!

     That was an eventful day... Escaped my cell without being noticed, found my gear and escaped the entire complex without raising an alarm. Sam Fisher, eat your heart out! I've moved to the back of the cave as I heard noises a for minutes ago. Turned out to be a cow... Still, it's not worth taking the risk, so I'm lying low. I might try and get some sleep, and tomorrow, I'll head out early and try to survey the surroundings from a higher vantage point. They say that the first night is the most dangerous for an escapee because they are most likely to make the most mistakes because of nerves and whatnot. So far, I think I'm doing pretty well...

Syeonyx signing off