Tulip Glasslip here.
I woke up in my car less than three hours ago. I have absolutely no memory of the past ten days.
The car is parked on the side of Route 14 and judging by the mild heat inside it hasn't been here for long. I had absolutely no idea where I was or how much time had passed when I woke up, the only thing I remembered was going to the forest and searching for that bunker. Good thing I paid my hotel beforehand, otherwise I might be slightly more wanted than usual.
I drove towards Fuchsia and tried to get my bearings. I still had my laptop with me, along with the camera I took when I headed to the forest. I remember thinking I should record my expedition just in case I ran across any important findings. Unfortunately, there was no video files inside the camera, as if they'd been deleted. Inside the computer however I found a folder that I do not remember creating before, modified only a hours ago.
There were three image files inside. The first was a photo of the forest, with the time-stamp of my camera in the bottom right. It looks to be in the middle of the day, judging by the sunlight filtering through the leaves and branches above.
The second… gave me a few shivers, I'll admit. It's taken in the middle of the night, a few hours after the first one. This is strange, as I remember adamantly thinking that I was not going to be inside that forest when the sun went down. The photo is of the side of the black bunker, but there's a person in front of that white logo. It's impossible to see their face or determine their gender since there's poor lighting and they're wearing an oversized hoodie. The only thing I can tell is that their skin is extremely pale and they're as skinny as a twig. The corners of the image look blurry, as if this happened just before I turned my camera away; a sign that this is a screenshot of the video that was deleted from it.
The third is from last night. It's taken from outside my car; facing the window. I can see myself sleeping, along with the shadow of the person holding the camera against the door.
Terrified doesn't even begin to describe how I'm feeling. It took me a while to recover from seeing that, but here I am still writing, I suppose. These three photos are clearly meant to intimidate me, but it will not be that easy. If this person wants me to stop investigating Wysteria then they'll have to try harder than this.
Coincidentally, I logged into my website to see if Pruner had written any more comments. Indeed, from the place I last stayed at, it reads as such:
See a figure pale as snow?
Night around him black as crow?
Trees are silent, cold is here.
The flower man is coming near.
I've seldom wanted to punch someone in the face as much as whoever this person is. Not only is that terrible poetry, but it gives me no useful information. Why the need to be so cryptic? Just come here and stab me in the neck, it'll be way quicker.
…In any case, it seems my journey was not entirely fruitless. Inside my bag was a small, leather-bound journal, the one I'd set out to find. In the front it's written Property of Mark Reagan.
It took me about forty minutes to get through it, and about half an hour to transcribe the parts that are relevant for all of you to read. I cut out the first three quarters, since they're merely about the man's day to day life. At some point his entries stop for a couple months, and the next thing he writes is that he's in trial for murder. Revenge against someone who attacked his wife, apparently. I apologize for leaving something like that out, but I don't think displaying this man's grief for everyone to see would be a good thing to do.
Here below are the remaining entries after that:
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May 18, 2014
I fear for my fate. Earlier this morning I've been informed that I am to be processed for another jury meeting soon. My lawyer has been honest with me; she does not think I have a chance of coming out of this unscathed. She suggested the possibility of accepting the minimum mandatory sentence, which seems to be my best-case scenario at the moment.
I told her I could consider it, and unfortunately I'm starting to think I should.
There is only one thing that can clear my head in a situation like this. Tomorrow promises good weather, so I will head to the hills near Fuchsia for a bit of hiking and fresh air. That might help me come up with a solution, or at the very least form a decision.
May 19, 2014
I have made a curious discovery. While hiking around the west coast of Route 14 I've come across some sort of cabin, located no more than a mile away from the road and partially hidden by the thick foliage of the place.
It doesn't seem to be populated, as I didn't notice any car nearby nor footsteps near the doors. The windows look dusty and the inside is dark, yet intact. Judging by the pipe work running close to the ground it seems to have running water, and hopefully electricity as well. It doesn't look like it belongs to a family, perhaps an abandoned ranger's outpost?
I admit, certain thoughts have been racing through my mind ever since my discovery. I wouldn't ever consider such a thing, were it not for the grim possibility of having to live behind bars for the years to come.
I need to do some thinking. I'll come back as soon as I can with the excuse of hiking so I can explore the place further.
May 20, 2014
The jury meeting has not gone well. A decision will be made next week. I have until then to accept the minimum sentence.
I've come to accept that justice was never in the jury's best interest. I am proud to have killed that man, and anyone with a lick of sense wouldn't dare to reprimand me for it. I know I am guilty, and so does the jury.
Tomorrow, I go hiking.
May 21, 2014
The keys for the cabin were under the rug. The inside is cozy and the wood that makes up the walls seems to be sturdy enough. There's an unused fridge, proper plumbing and two beds along with one table and four chairs.
Unfortunately, I've found evidence that the cabin is still in use, in a way. From a few papers and pamphlets littered around I've found out that, once a year, the government sends someone here for an entire week to do some sort of job related to Ditto.
While this is a troubling development, it could be much worse. This cabin is still my best chance. I need to head back home as to not raise suspicion, but I will be back here again.
May 22, 2014
Five days until my sentence is decided. I'm already arranging for a way to transport food and other items to the cabin without anyone noticing.
May 24, 2014
Luck has shined on me today.
While exploring the perimeter of the cabin I came across a beautiful valley with a lake of clear waters. I tested it with my kit and it seems to be drinkable, so I will not have to worry if the cabin's plumbing malfunctions. However, that is not all.
I came across yet another construction in the hills, this one even more hidden and inaccessible. It looks like some sort of war-era bunker, made of thick stone and with a sturdy metal roof. There is some sort of insignia painted on the side, though I don't recognize it.
Unfortunately, the steel door is shut by a lock. Tomorrow I will come back with my tools; I should be able to gain access.
May 25, 2014
Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
It took an hour of hard work, but I was able to break the lock and take a look inside the bunker.
I was pleasantly surprised to discover that there were a multitude of old, dusty cans of food lying around, still edible from what I can tell. Enough to last me for at least a few months. However, that was not the most interesting part.
Aside from a table and some filing cabinets, I found what looks like some sort of blast door, equipped with a password panel. I also discovered several papers lying around the floor, full of words and terms I can't possibly hope to understand. From what little I could gather from them, this might've been some sort of research facility in the past. I can only dream as to where that door might lead; it simply will not open for me.
While the place doesn't have plumbing, there does seem to be electricity, enough to power the panel next to the door and the lamp hanging from the roof, at the very least. This should make a good secondary shelter. I might use it when the cabin is about to be occupied during that week.
Curiously, when I walked out of the bunker I could've sworn I saw a strange, almost pink mist in the distance through the forest. I'm no stranger to something like that, but… in the middle of spring? My nerves must be playing tricks on me.
May 27, 2014
I have made my decision. Today I declined the minimum sentence, to the dismay and horror of my lawyer. This should give me enough time to stage my escape.
I will only take with me what is essential. Inside the box I'll carry with me are my tools, a few change of clothes, plates, vases and utensils… and of course, a picture of my dear. I wouldn't dream leaving it back here, not after everything that's happened. Her memory is the only reason I haven't given up hope yet.
I know you can't read this, darling. Still, know that you're the one who's keeping me going.
Tomorrow, I leave.
May 28, 2014
It took all day and most of the night, but I believe I am safe.
I drove towards the intersection between Lavender and the path heading to Fuchsia and left the car there. I then walked through the forest until I reached the cabin and settled myself. I hope they will think I ran out of gas and escaped north.
I withdrew all the money I could from our bank account before fleeing, just in case. Should my temporary food run out I might be able to head to a nearby town and buy groceries in some shady part of town. However, that is a long time away.
Finally, I am safe.
June 2, 2014
Getting used to my new life is not as easy as I thought, but I suppose I should not complain. I'm lucky not to be trapped behind iron bars.
I struggle to find good ways to pass the time, besides hiking. In a fit of forgetfulness I forgot to bring any books; perhaps I could buy some in the near future. Not yet; I need my trail to go somewhat cold before that.
I have plenty of time to think. I might just make use of it.
June 6, 2014
I am starting to make peace with this forest, and in a slower pace with myself as well.
Veronica, I always laughed at the idea of trying out yoga, no matter how much you pushed me to it. I've started practicing, and it works wonders for my sleep quality and schedule.
I wish you could've gotten the last laugh on the subject.
June 9, 2014
I've made acquaintances with a small group of Bellsprout and Venonat. They enjoy the canned food leftovers, and in return they occasionally bring me berries. It's been so long since I've tasted something sweet, I almost cried the first time I took a bite out of one.
It feels good to have something like friends again.
June 10, 2014
I've developed a good routine for most days, which might help in preventing me from going mad from boredom. Hiking is a top priority, and these days I do it until I can barely walk.
I've never slept more soundly.
June 12, 2014
There isn't much spring left, and the nights are beginning to get windy. I don't wish to abuse the electricity in case I am found out, so I might start making small bonfires outside to warm me up. I'm not in any danger by the local Pokemon, after all.
I'll see if I can find any Siffo trees. Their wood burns without much smoke or scent, which is just what I need. I'll follow a few Oddish around, since they're very attracted to the sap of that particular tree.
June 14, 2014
Today I managed to sneak into Fuchsia just before the stores closed. I bought a few books, a six-pack of beer, spices and a good flashlight. These will be invaluable.
I was tempted to go someplace with internet and look my name up, see if they're still looking for me. However I considered it too risky to try. Maybe next time.
June 18, 2014
I've begun to move my hiking slightly west, towards the valley and the black bunker I took the canned goods from. I purified and re-filled all my water bottles in the lake, and I was pleasantly surprised that no Pokemon came to object, considering how eager some are about their drinking spots.
Now that I mention it, I don't remember seeing any Pokemon near that area. Perhaps I was simply not paying attention.
June 19, 2014
I miss you so much, Veronica. When I dream, you are here with me.
June 22, 2014
The group of Venonat have guided me towards a hidden patch of forest with many berry bushes laying around. I promised not to take more than a couple a week, and in exchange I gave them two whole cans of food. Best deal I've ever made.
Guess who's eating fancy tonight?
June 23, 2014
I've never been too much a fan of Shauntal's writing, but this particular book is pretty good. It's about a kid who wants to be a magician and, unlike a lot of fantasy, he ends up disappointed because magic is nothing like he thought. Also, he's up to his ass in student loans. Most relatable book I've ever read.
June 24, 2014
Another trip to the valley, and this time I am sure I neither saw nor heard any Pokemon the higher I went. This troubles me, for some reason.
The cabin sits as immobile as ever. I believe I saw the mist again in the distance, though I'm not eager to investigate.
June 28, 2014
I could've sworn I heard some sort of growl coming from outside, but it didn't sound like any Pokemon I've come across in the forest before. It was deep, but not loud. I couldn't catch all of it since I was partly asleep.
I hope it was simply a machination of my sleeping mind.
July 1, 2014
Summer has started unpacking its bags. I'm afraid I must leave the cabin momentarily.
If those pamphlets are correct this place will be not only visited but inhabited by someone in a few days. I will move all my possessions to the black bunker and lay there in wait until they're gone. Worst case scenario they find me and I claim to be a hermit.
I will head there one week before the date that's printed here, just in case they come sooner.
July 6, 2014
I moved everything to the bunker and cleaned any trace of my presence in this cabin. Tonight is the last night I sleep on this bed for a while, so I better try to enjoy it.
July 7, 2014
I've grown accustomed to the windows and fresh air of the cabin. The bunker is certainly better than a cell, though if I leave the doors closed the heat is unbearable, and if I open it up all the southern wind enters and blows stuff away.
I'm also not a fan of sleeping in a makeshift mattress in the floor, but I'll manage.
July 8, 2014
Second day in the bunker, no sight of anyone else around.
I found that stack of illegible scientific papers again. Might as well give them a read, since I don't have much else to do here.
July 10, 2014
I was woken up in the middle of the night by a sound I cannot remember. I'm also struggling immensely to recall what I dreamt, which is unusual for me.
In other news, I managed to find the panel's password amidst all the numbers and gibberish of these papers. I also saw mention of something called the Unovan Project, though who the hell knows what that's about. I can't begin to make sense of anything else here. I'll try out the password tomorrow.
July 11, 2014
They're here. I saw the smoke of their fire in the distance, and walking back to the valley I noticed not only footprints, but a strange powder floating in the surface of the lake. Must be the government workers; I was correct to leave the cabin a few days before the set date. I'll be careful and not go out much; hopefully they will not see this place.
I tried the password on the panel today, and it opened with an awful whirr. Unfortunately the inside was what appeared to be a tunnel, heading downwards and carved straight out of the stone, with no lights or support. I am wary to explore further during the night.
July 12, 2014
I woke up in a cold sweat, hearing an inhuman sound in the back of my mind. It sounded like the grinding of metal and flesh together, but when I went out to check I found nothing but that strange mist all around me. I definitely haven't imagined it this time.
July 12, 2014
It's morning. I woke up and tried to open the blast door again, but the power has gone out. Worse yet, when I took a peek outside I noticed the silhouette of a person in the distance, near the valley. A young girl I believe, probably a teenager. She didn't notice me, but I fear she might've seen the bunker.
Update: another, different girl came to the valley this afternoon and stared intently at the bunker. She even circled around the lake a bit to take a better look. My nerves and lack of sleep are getting the better of me, I don't know what I should do.
I'll try my best to act casual, and if they approach me I'll go with my hermit story. Hopefully things will go well.
July 12, 2014
There is most certainly some sort of creature around this patch of forest. I heard that flesh grinding sound again, this time while I was completely awake.
I can't take this anymore. If this is the result of my deteriorating psyche and prolonged isolation, I would at least like to make sure. The sun will go down soon, and I can smell the coming rain in the air. Still, I cannot bear to wait any longer.
I'll grab my flashlight and head out. Hopefully I'll get back before nightfall.
[That is the last entry posted. Judging from the date and the mention of a coming rainstorm, this must've been written the night of Denna's death.
The pieces of this story have fallen into place. Hank must've been the dead man Kate and her friends found that night.
I don't know how to feel knowing I just read someone's last words.]
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While the diary might not be as revealing as I hoped, it still gave me some important information. The blast door lead to an underground tunnel, and judging by the trajectory and Hank's guess of its length, I might be able to plot a map of where it leads… somewhat. I have much investigating to do.
Additionally, the incident with the Musharna is confirmed to be the fault of them. I suspected as much, but it is nice to have solid information on the subject.
The events of these past days have proved… emotionally taxing, in a way. I'll try to pilot my next course of action, though I might need a couple days to recover from the shock and try to remember what happened. I will talk to you all next time I have some sort of lead.
Tulip Glasslip.