Chapter 2

The Dark Forest

A gloomy, cold, and lonely forest; northernmost of all the continents. It carries a dreary yet light feeling.

But even in a desolate, solitary place like this, there is a research laboratory not far north from The Barrier which divides The Dark Forest from the rest of the beautiful, sunlit continent of Areane.

An unsettling feeling could be sensed by a pale, dark-haired Polarian researcher named Denai Heimer.

Heimer Laboratories, Polaria

"Good Morning Dr. Heimer!", an assistant greeted me genially. "Huh, oh he-uh Good Morning", I replied inattentively. "Someone's a little distracted today", he said with a little chuckle. "No uh, just a little tired, that's all", I lied. "Well whatever's up with you, I hope it won't affect our plans for today", he said concernedly. I looked at him with a confused face. "We're going to the Quora nest we located to observe their natural behaviors", he reminded. "Oh yes!", I laughed nervously. He looked at me concerned. "Are you sure you're alright? You're never this forgetful or unfocused." "Yeah! I'm good. Nothing to worry about", I assured. He looked skeptical. "Whatever you say", he excused. "Yes, after all this is my laboratory", I said half-jokingly. He chuckled insincerely before turning to walk back to the office.

Proceeding to the observatory, I walked past a group of scientists murmuring to each other while staring at me walking by. I assumed I was overthinking when I concluded they were talking about me, but who knows? The disrespect people show to authority sometimes is abhorrent; I will never understand it. But anyways, I was nearing the corridor to the observatory now and got this unsettling chill down my spine. Usually, I don't get scared or even nervous going to the observatory, considering there are multiple ferocious creatures in confinement.

Feeling slightly uneasy, I pushed the thought away and continued walking. Weirdly the walk to the observatory seemed further, but it wasn't, obviously. Hallways don't just move around. Today everything just seemed to drag; my talk with the assistant, walking past the muttering scientists, and the trip in general. The day just felt so... off. I couldn't quite put my finger on it.

'Finally!' I thought and took my keycard out of my coat pocket and scanned it. 'ding' "What a relieving sound to hear, something actually acting normal", I said aloud. Rushing in I saw the place was a mess. "Who in their right mind would leave the place like this", I shouted in disappointment. I sighed before grabbing a washcloth to wipe up all the scattered spills and return any equipment that was left out. After tidying up, I walked down the hallway right of the entrance to the confinements to feed and confirm all the subjects were well; I only had to do this because our feeders were out today, for some odd reason. I was anxiously doing so knowing I would have to feed our latest addition, a Quora. A massive, vicious creature, native to The Dark Forest. Adversely, we will be visiting a nest of these things later today.

8 Hours Later

"Alright, Let's go!", a man commanded. Inside, I was still filling a to-go bag with all things I needed. 'Taser, White-Grenade for protection', I thought to myself. I was about done when I heard rushing footsteps down the hallway. A couple of seconds later, my research assistant Jepp Harlo, who was concerned earlier, popped his head around the corner, "You ready to go Dr. Heimer?", he asked, sounding rather anticipated. "Yes, just finished. Do we need anything else besides the usual?", I questioned. "Not that I can think of... Why?", he replied. "I just feel like I'm forgetting something", I replied with uncertainty. "I don't know, I would say tranquilizers but, the hunters got that", he uselessly offered. "Well whatever it is, I'm sure it's not that important", I dismissed. "Okay then we should head out; the guys are waiting for us", he urged. I looked around one more time just to make sure before I left.

"How far is the nest from here?", I genuinely asked. He pondered before answering, "I believe it's a 20-minute flight from here". Not too far from the rooftop door to the helipad we bumped into a coworker whom I recently had a disagreement with. "Oh! Dr. Heimer. Didn't expect to see you in today... after you know", the girl instigated. "Yes Melinda, I thought you knew today I was planning to go observe some Quora in the wild", I blatantly reminded. "No I know, I just figured that plan fell through... after you know", she responded with clear irritation in her tone. "Look, Melinda... I apologize for not using the simplistic method you offered. It wasn't very effective or accurate. It wasn't personal", I assured her. She twisted her head sarcastically, then replied, "Denai, I didn't say it felt personal.

I just assumed it was the best method to use in that situation, and when you arrogantly shut it down like your method was sooo better". I looked at her in disbelief. "Melinda I don't understand why you are making such a big deal out of nothing. And I never said nor implied my method was better, just that it was more efficient than the one you proposed." She paused for a second. "Unbelievable", she said as she turned and walked away. "I can't believe the audacity!", she said to herself as she walked.

"What's her deal?", Jepp looked confused. "It's nothing. Let's just leave", I said. As we walked up to the rooftop exit we could hear the loud helicopter. When Jepp opened the door and we walked out, one of the mercenaries shouted, "Hurry up! Let's go!". Jepp and I got on the helicopter and fastened our seatbelts. The guy gave us headsets as we took off. Once I had put it on, the man said, "Good Afternoon Dr. Heimer! I'm Matthew Anakara''. I didn't know his name but I knew I hired him for this job from Eeranj. Politely I replied, "Good Afternoon! And nice to meet you!". He glanced around at the scenery contemplating before asking, "What did you say we were checking out?". I wondered if he would care that it's Quora but responded anyway with, "A Quora nest, hoping to observe some behavioral patterns. I hired you for safety precautions." He looked appealed. "Ah I see, I was hoping this would be some fun", he laughed.

It was about twenty minutes later when we neared the nest. I could see not far off, some Quora trodding back to their nest with food in their mouths. "Alright! We'll land on this hill over here", the pilot informed us. The pilot landed a little roughly, which kind of startled me, considering the flight was very calm the whole way here. "Now get off! I ain't lingering for any longer! I'm gettin' the hell outta here as fast as I can!" the pilot shouted in angst. "Then let's get going", Matthew added.

Once we had gotten our equipment and essentials, we jumped off the helicopter. With no one saying anything, it was a quiet walk through the snowy woods of The Dark Forest.

"You got the cameras Dr. Heimer?", Jepp asked. "Uhhh... yeah!", I hesitated while checking to make sure I did. "Good, cuz without 'em this trip would have been a waste", Matthew chimed in.

As we continued walking through the forest, I realized what I had forgotten; my snow boots. Now, I have to walk in heels the entire trip while freezing my toes off. We got about 150 feet from the nest when Matthew stopped us and had his team set up camp on the hill we were on. "It's got good cover. So the Quora shouldn't be able to see us", Matthew assured. I looked at him relieved, as I had a little anxiety, and said, "Well at least there's that". Matthew shrugged his shoulders as if what he said wasn't entirely true.

"Listen up! For now we will be setting our tents and hunting for food. As you can tell, we couldn't exactly pack a whole buffet", Matthew informed. As Matthew walked back toward his stuff I pulled him aside and complained, "Tent!? I didn't know we needed tents. Where will I sleep?". He smirked as if he planned something in case this happened and offered, "No need to worry, I have some tools for constructing as my tent is no tent at all; it's a cabin. If you want, you can sleep in my cabin, I can make it accustom for two people". Feeling that would be a bit weird, I accepted that was my only option and replied, "Umm... I guess. If you don't mind?". "I do, but I'm always happy to help!", he cheerfully replied. "Thanks, I was beginning to think I wasn't going to be comfortable at all during this trip", I said half-jokingly. He chuckled and then proceeded into the woods.

While the men were setting up tents, I just looked around at the scenery and took a few pictures whilst walking through the camp. I stopped when I saw a Quora in the distance on a ledge. I immediately picked up my camera and zoomed in with the lens to take a shot. As I focused the lens and steadied the camera Jepp greeted me very suddenly, "Hey! Watchya doin'?". "Ah!", I shrieked. "Woah! Sorry, didn't mean to scare you", He assured. "Really? Cause it seems like you did, popping up right behind me and all", I said sarcastically. "What's wrong with you? You all right?", Jepp asked concernedly. "Yeah, I'm just a little on edge today, that's all", I said, calming myself down. "That's totally fine. You have every right to be on edge. With Melinda, this whole research project, and all the news spreading about Mirrond. I can easily relate to your discomfort", He added. "Thanks for understanding, but I really need to get a hold of myself. It's really not that bad for me to be so uneasy", I downplayed. "That may be true but, you also can't expect not to be a bit scared", He continued.

Thinking this was a bit unprofessional I quickly changed the subject, "Well I was taking a picture of a Quora I saw lying on that ledge over there". He squinted his eyes and looked in the direction I pointed, "Oh, huh, I don't see it". "Of course not anymore, but it was there before you startled", I rudely reminded. He stayed quiet as we gazed at the beautiful forest. "You know, I don't get why people call it The Dark Forest; It's absolutely gleaming, the bright white snow, the crisp air filled with the sweet pine aroma. The last thing you could call this place is 'dark'", He spoke abruptly. Looking at him with admiration I agreed, "Yeah, I've always wondered that too; such a beautiful place being called dark". He looked back at me in admiration. As we peered into each other's eyes I felt this intimacy between us two. He slowly raised his cheeks into a smile of affection. I stared back at him expressionless, as I felt nervous and a little awkward we were sharing this moment.

I thought to myself, 'what do I do? I can't kiss him, do I even like him? Or is it just this foolish intimate moment we're having'. I knew I had to do something, even though it would hurt him I had to ruin the moment and quickly turned my head while taking in a deep breath saying, "Well! We should probably get back to work, right?". He shook his head and stumbled, "Oh, uhh... yeah! Totally, we've got a lot to do". I could tell it kinda stung him that I didn't keep the intimacy going, but I couldn't give in to romance, at least not on official business. I did what I had to do, we'll leave it at that and hope he never brings this up in the future.

Later in the evening, while Matthew's men were setting up fires for the night, I wanted to take some pictures of the evening sky, as I've heard it is beautiful. Looking for a good spot to take pictures from, I saw in my peripheral, something that appeared to be a rock. As the sun was going down, it was hard for me to make out what the figure was. Unable to see what it was, I continued on to walk up this little path that led up to a cliff about 50 feet up from the camp. Starting on the path, I heard a voice call out my name. I glanced around to see if I was trippin' out or not. Then again, "Dr. Heimer!", a voice shrilled out.

Again, it was getting dark and I couldn't see much, but I answered back anyway, "Yes?". There was silence until I heard quiet footsteps coming toward me. I looked in the direction of the sound and saw a black figure walking toward me. "Dr. Heimer! It's late, you shouldn't be this far from the camp", Matthew said as he came into my view. Kind of confused, I asked, "Why not? Is it not safe?". He answered, "That would be an understatement, and besides, it's dark out, shouldn't that be motivating enough to stay near the camp?". I nodded my head in agreement and concurred, "I guess, you're right". He proceeded to walk back with me saying, "You know, I'm getting paid to protect you? I'm not doing this just to boss you around, you hired me for this". Realizing that was true, I just nodded to let him know I understood.

Nearing the camp I saw a completed wall around the perimeter and a giant metal gate for the entrance. Astonished yet curious I asked, "What are the walls and gate made of? Do you know?". He contemplated before answering, "Yeah! Uh... the walls were built using a friend of mine's powers, and the gate was a team effort". He paused, then continued, "You know, we gotta keep the place secure and sturdy. Quora aren't just known for being aggressive and vengeful; my main worry is their size; an adult can easily reach 2 to 3 tons, so".

Giving a frightened expression, I chuckled nervously as that gave me a little anxiety and we continued silently, as there was nothing further to say.

Approaching the gate, I looked up to see guards aligning the perimeter of the wall. Each one holding a variety of weapons. Curious as to why Matthew wasn't holstering any weapons, I asked, "Where's yours?". He looked at me saying, "My gun or my dignity?", he joked. "Both", I replied jokingly. He laughed and then quickly straightened his expression and ordered, "Open 'em up!". The gate slowly began sliding to the left as we walked in.

Amazed as I looked around, seeing legitimate military tents and a few cabins scattered in the area. The perimeter of the camp was more of a decagon than a circle. I continued scanning the camp, impressed but slightly underwhelmed by the craftsmanship. Matthew studied me as I'm sure he could tell I was critiquing their work.

He sounded a bit bothered when he said, "Alright well, I better prep for our hunt tomorrow". I lifted my eyebrows in approval and reminded, "Right, except it's not a hunt; it's observational research". "Mmh", He blatantly disregarded what I said and walked off.

I mockingly thought to myself, 'Okay, cause I'm so rude', and stormed off as well.

Unaware that I was upset, Jepp approached me with, "Hey! How's my...". "Not now!", I cut him off. He backed up holding a confused face as I proceeded. I saw my cabin several feet away with my name engraved on a wooden sign, hanging above the door. Irritably, I burst open the cabin door and slammed it shut. Now inside, I finally felt like I could calm down with no one to further frustrate me. With my mind in a blur, I had completely forgotten to lock the door. Inattentive of this, I plopped on the unfinished wooden bed, holding my head in exhaustion. I sighed heavily a few times before sitting up to dig in my bag for some Sypei pills and water.

I popped one in my mouth and chugged my canister of water. Ready to knock out, I lay on my side facing the window, which the starry moonlight shined through; and dazed off.

Midnight

"Mmhm", I grunted, waking up to the sound of gunshots in the distance. Confused as to what was going on, I got up and walked to the front door, and opened it. Glancing around, I saw people along the top of the wall firing at something in the woods, and people all over the place, running frantically in the camp. I caught a glimpse of Matthew running to the gate and shouted, "Matthew! Wait!". I caught up to him, "What's going on? Everyone is frantic". His eyes shooting from one thing to the next, looking worried, he answered, "No time to explain. Just stay inside your cabin".

Persistent to get answers, I tried to keep up. He was running quite fast without his ability, which is fairly uncommon. He noticed I was following right behind him and yelled, "Stop! Go back to your cabin, it's not safe!". "No! Not until you tell me what is happening!", I yelled back. "Even if I told you, you'd still be curious and want to see for yourself. So go!", He claimed. Running out of breath, I slowed to a stop. He kept running to the entrance with an EB 1,000 in his hands. Being well educated, I could easily presume there was a big threat outside the camp for him to need that.

And sure enough, when I finally made it to the entrance, the gate was wide open. I couldn't see anything in the pitch-black darkness of the woods. Matthew caught sight of me and hurried over. "What are you doing!? You're gonna get yourself killed, and it won't be my fault that you were too foolish", He augured. "Well I'm your superior, so I say what goes", I replied sternly. Without further testing my authority, he stepped back. 'How inconvenient', I thought to myself feeling even more irritated than I was when I went to bed.

There was complete and utter silence as the guards scanned the surrounding forest. Not realizing I was standing directly in front of the entrance, Matthew yanked me aside. "Are you crazy!?", He angrily whispered. I rolled my eyes sarcastically.

A crunch could be heard near us. I slowly backed up against the wall, scared. I didn't know who or what was in the woods, but it certainly wasn't friendly.

Everyone looked around as a monstrous roar echoed through the forest. "That had to have been a mile or so from here", Matthew muttered. "Is that good?", I asked. "What do you think?", He replied sarcastically. "Now is not the time to act childish", I snapped at him. "But earlier was?", He pointed out. I tightened my expression as I turned away from him to look back into the woods.

"Captain? I think it's gone", a guard spoke quietly to Matthew. "No, just stay...". A Quora leaped over the wall clamping the guard in its mouth. I let out a dramatic shriek, before instinctively running back to my cabin. As I ran, I heard multiple screams and gunshots. To my right, the Quora flew into one of the cabins from the blast of Matthew's EB. "Waah!", I shrieked in fear. Adrenaline coursing through my veins and I had nothing on my mind except getting back to my cabin safe and sound.

Continued screaming could be heard all around the camp as I saw glimpses of the Quora snatching up bodies and tossing them into the air. I was barefoot, so as you can see, I was struggling to run fast enough to get the hell away from that thing. "Denai!", I heard a voice shout. I looked to see Jepp running to me. "Slow down!", He continued yelling. "No!", I said, shrieking at the same time because a body was thrown my way by the Quora. I screamed frantically as I saw it lock eyes with me. Jepp, seeing this, immediately took off in the opposite direction. "You cowaaaah!", I screamed as the Quora threw me up into the air with its head. My body went numb as I watched its jaws gape underneath me. I closed my eyes, certain yet still afraid I was going to die.

I heard a chomp and opened my eyes to see Matthew, holding me in his arms. "You good?", He asked. Shaking, I replied, "Ye... uh... yeah". He slowly put me down. "Go, get out of here. And no matter what, don't look back", he said ominously. I was in complete disbelief as to what just occurred. 'What the f*** just happened', I thought blankly to myself.

Still in shock, I wasn't processing the current events. Subconsciously, I looked to my right to see a man digging in his backpack for something. It took him several seconds, but once he got what he was looking for, he pulled a Crea Orb out of his bag. In my head at that point, I was set on giving up. 'What more could I do?', I thought. Once that guy throws the Crea Orb it's over for all of us.

Suddenly, while I was deep in desolate thought, I felt arms lift under mine and looked up to see Matthew preparing to toss me into a portal he opened on my left. "Tuck and brace for impact", He warned as he threw me into the portal. I caught a quick glimpse of the guy desperately springing the Crea Orb from his arm towards the Quora. I shut my eyes in fear.

I felt my body pass through the portal and opened my eyes as I landed on a sidewalk. I looked back and saw the portal disappear almost instantly. My mind was racing, 'what happened to Matthew', I worried. Did I get everyone killed by going through with this mission? I finally snapped back into reality and noticed people on the sidewalk I was on, staring at me with stunned expressions. Looking around I stood up, wondering where I was. The city looked like my hometown, which I hadn't been to in over 30 years. I immediately feared accidentally running into my parents. 'How would they react? Would they miss me? Be upset with me?', I thought as I blindly walked around.

I had no money, food, appropriate clothing for the weather, or any means of transportation. How was I supposed to get around? I knew, despite my earlier opinion, I would have to find my parents' house, and sadly beg for help. How lowly I have treated myself these past few weeks. I'm 72 years old and have to come crying to my parents for help. How inauspicious of Matthew to choose Porci, my hometown in Polaria of all places.

Then again, I have no choice. My best bet is to ask for help from the only two people in the world that I know personally.