Post on 31-May-2018
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The Mysterious
Disappearances
By Ambikesh Mishra
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I
Edward Sanchez, Sera Sanchez, Allan Tait, Ronnie Martin and Jack Gibbs
were ready for their official visit to the two haunted villages. These five had been
studying in the famous Denver institute of detective arts for several years and
this was their first practical assignment which was a test that would decide their
future. These young kids who were aspiring to be detectives were about 16
years and it had been their childhood dream to uncover an unsolved mystery.
Gourd village and the Spirit village, popularly known as the twin haunted
villages were the destination of this small group. Recently, a class of university
students went on a camping trip to this location and every member of the group
disappeared without leaving any trace. It was therefore assumed that they were
taken by angry spirits who had punished them for trespassing into their holy
land. There was also a legend that some hidden treasure left by the Frenchduring their brief stay in the province was buried somewhere in the vicinity of the
two villages. Many unsuccessful attempts had been made to find those precious
rubies, amethysts, diamonds and gold coins. All of these expeditions had
resulted in failure and at least one of the crew had gone missing which had
scared the other members, compelling them to pack their bags and leave the
place at once. A thought of paying a visit to that area was considered to be sheer
lunacy.
The detective club had conducted extensive research and had collected
much data about the two villages and the nature of the disappearances throughvarious sources. They were totally abreast with the prevalent facts. As far as they
could conclude, these incidents were the work of a vicious murderer rather than
an angry spirit. They had been ordered by the detective school to investigate
further into the matter and dig out the truth. After days of planning, the group
was finally prepared to leave for their dangerous journey to the two haunted
villages.
Got everything ready?Queried Edward
Yeah, I have packed all the necessary equipments we shall need. Our bus will
arrive shortly as well. It will drop us at a nearby town; the two haunted villageswill take 3 hours of walking to reach.Allan replied heartily
Dont call it haunted. It stirs up a nasty feeling. Remarked Sera
Someones getting scared!Taunted Allan
Sera spoke in a cold voice:
Oh, do shut up. Its time for us to leave.
They proceeded towards the door and locked it from the outside. Everyone
hopped on to the bus and the vehicle jolted forward. It was dusk when they set
out and the pleasant warm atmosphere brought in a cheery mood. For a while,
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the students forgot that they were heading towards the lions mouth and talked
to each other merrily. Time passed quickly and it was dawn when the bus finally
stopped at the Argus bus stand in the outskirts of Shropshire town.
So we have to walk from here?Jack asked the bus driver
Yes, just proceed on this road. It does not deviate anywhere and shall take you
straight to the entrance of Gourd village. Replied the bus driver
Thanks for the journey!Jack replied merrily
The bus took a U-turn and sped back and eventually disappeared from vicinity.
So now we are all alone, arent we? No turning back now. Sera spoke suddenly
No. A real detective must face the angers and we shall face the ones bravely
that head our way. replied Ronnie jauntily
Well spoken. Now move along, it will be a long journey.
A brief uneasy silence pursued which was broken by the chirping of a bird. It was
pleasant summer morning and the flowers were in full bloom creating a merry
atmosphere. However this wasnt true in the case of the group. A worried
expression was clearly visible on everyones face. It was Jack who spoke first:
Hey Ed, dont you think this environment doesnt match with the atmosphere of
a haunted village?
No, you are right. Everything seems so ordinary. I didnt expect this as well.Edreplied
The hard concrete road gave way to a narrow stony path covered by the
undergrowth bending into an avenue. Time passed and after walking
continuously for several hours, the group reached a cliff with a tunnel which dug
through it and seemed to be the only way through. The tunnel entrance was
very dark from the outside and the group hesitatingly and with caution
proceeded towards it. Jack searched through his rucksack and took out a torch
whose light he directed towards the darkness illuminating the path ahead.
Allan was a computer freak with immense experience of working outthings with the help of his handy laptop. He was a short boy of about 51 with
ruffled hair, an upturned nose which supported the burden of his sleek and
stylish spectacles. On the contrary, Jack was tall about 62 in height, muscular
with equally ruffled hair, small blue eyes accompanied by large eyebrows. Jack
had a hard exterior but his friends had known from the beginning that inside his
hard exterior laid a heart of gold. Edward or Ed as his friends called him was
neither tall nor stout of about 56 in height, with spiked black hair, large brown
eyes and he was known for his brilliance in deduction on several occasions. But
except for these rare times, he was rather dumb. Sera were the oldest among
them of about 18 years of age, long black hair, fair skin and small blue eyes.From the outside appearances, no one even the canniest of detectives would
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have been able to deduce that she was Edwards older sister. Her duty was not
only to solve mysteries but also to look after her brother. She had a photographic
memory and could remember whatever she saw very distinctly in her mind.
Ronald or Ronnie Martin was about the same height as Jack with long brown hair
neatly tied into one pigtail. He had round chin and had a fair complexion. He
belonged to Eds category but his brilliance in deduction was seen more often
than his friend. When one looked at the bigger picture, a thought would
immediately cross ones mind that the detective school had blended some of the
most promising talents into one united group that would be able to tackle any
assignment that was hurled at them.
II
We have been walking for fifteen minutes. This tunnel never seems to end.Jack
said impatiently
As they bent around a corner a ray of light came gushing in bringing anexpression of relief on everyones face.
According to my calculations, this tunnel is 1.5km long which takes to the Gourd
villages entrance where we are standing right now. See those shabby pillars with
a welcome sign?Allan explained
There must be some other way to get to this village. The tunnel was so creepy.
No wonder a few ghosts may be lurking around somewhere in the midst.Jack
spoke shivering
Come on Jack. There are no things such as ghosts. They only exist only in apersons imagination. Anyways there cant be any other way to get to this village
as I have observed that all the electrical and telephone wires run to your right.
Generally poles are used to transfer electricity and they are only made to run
through a tunnel if there isnt any other way. Moreover as you can see this
village is surrounded by tall cliffs on both sides which cant be scaled even with
the help of proper mountaineering equipment. Common lets not waste our time
here. Theres an inn around the corner. According to my research its the only
place in the whole village that allows visitors to stay.
Gourd village looked to be a small village with about twenty huts, one local innand the remaining area was used for cultivation. The inn was not what one would
rate as five- star. I hadnt been painted for several years and its wooden roof
probably leaked when it rained. There was quite a large garden in the inns
premises which any observer would have termed as well maintained. The
building was bathed in sunlight and showed no sign that it could be haunted.
Sera gently knocked on the door and spoke in a polite manner:
Hello! Is anyone there?
There was no reply and the group anxiously waited for several minutes.
It doesnt look like that the door is locked.
Sera cautiously opened the door and the group stepped into the inn. The place
seemed deserted and showed no sign of life. It was well furnished from the inside
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with a dining table in the far corner of the room and a door which probably to the
tenants rooms. The detectives scattered and started observing different parts of
the room. Suddenly several people wearing masks with countless dot like
punctures appeared from nowhere and surprised the group and sacred the wits
out of them. Allan was frightened to such an extent that he screamed and
jumped over Jack.
HAHA got you!Shouted one of the men wearing those strange masks
Just look at those pale faces! We really scared them, didnt we?Spoke another
one
They untied there marks and removed them. Each one of them was bemused but
this was not the case with the detective club. The still stood there still and
perplexed. It was Ronald who spoke first:
Just who in the world are you?
Oh dont be scared. We saw you coming this way and we thought of this littleplan to entertain you as well as ourselves.
Entertain us??Allan posted his query in an angry tone
Yeah, dont be angry with us. We are a just a TV crew and have come here to
make a film. We are making a TV show called Finding the mythical treasure. Its
the next big thing. But first, we would like to introduce ourselves. I am Ville, the
director. On my right is Rob, our camera man. Beside him are Amy and Joan
forming the support staff. On my left is Kyle who is the producer of the show.
I want to apologize for Allans rudeness. He is not his himself when he is
frightened. I am Ed, beside me is my sister Sera. These are Jack and Ronnie onmy right and I think you will probably guess who Allan is. We are representing a
detective school.
A pleasant conversation would have followed but the mood was disturbed by the
entrance of an old man whose facial expression showed no signs that he was in a
very chatty mood. He was bald and his whole body was covered in wrinkles and
his face looked droopy from every angle.
His voice echoed through the large reception room of the inn:
How dare you abuse the holy masks, you fools? Give me those; I didnt rentthem to you so that you can play jokes on others using them. You will induce the
wrath of gods upon you and my inn as well.
Ronnie spoke politely showing deep respect towards the venerable gentleman:
Sorry to interrupt sir but we five are from a detective club and have been sent
to solve the murder mysteries of anyone who has dared to look for that cursed
treasure. We intend to stay a while at you inn.
Eh? Those intruders were spirited away, not murdered. Anyways, you can stay
at the inn but dont meddle in our affairs.
III
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It was dusk and the sun was about to set. Ronnie, Sera and Ed had spent
the whole afternoon exploring the village while Allan was locked up in his room
busy working on his laptop while Jack had craft fully gathered information about
those strange and sacred masks. Jack had just entered the inn and was passing
in front of Joans room where he presumed the whole of the TV crew had
assembled. A quarrel between the members had resulted after a brief
conversation and Jack could easily distinguish what they were speaking. It was
Joan who spoke first:
I have solved the mystery of the strange symbol we found behind the
photograph which that university student had taken. I know where the treasure
lies.
Common Joan, spill the beans. We want our share. All of us have taken the risk
of coming to this dangerous place inhabited by those crazy masked
worshippers.Kyle spoke
When it comes to treasure, I dont share it with anyone. So you forget about it.
Anyways, I am tired of this brooding so I am going out in the garden to get somefresh air.
Jack quickly stepped sideways and in front of Allans room and slid the key
into the lock and opened the door and with equal briskness stepped in and
closed it from the inside.
What are you doing Jack?Allan asked curiously
Wait a while until Ed and the others come back. I have just overheard an
interesting conversation between the TV crew.
After a few moments, the three tired members of the detective group
came back and were astounded to hear Jacks story who described the whole
incident he had witnessed or rather listened to with all ears, very briefly.Everyone engrossed in working out what Jack had told them quietly proceeded
downstairs to dine with the members of the TV crew who were still rumbling
quietly how Joan had betrayed them. Dinner was served by a lady whose name
the detective club came to know as Katy assisted by a young girl about their age
whose name was Ruth.
Want more curry, Mr Ronald?Ruth asked
No thanks. Bye the way, your cooking is really good.Ronnie spoke heartily
Thanks. I dont get that sort of compliment very often.Ruth replied
Katy and Ruth gathered the plates and went t over to the kitchen disappearing
from the view.After fulfilling their appetite, everyone went back to their rooms where sleep
overcame them.
Peace reigned and in the garden and a cool breeze accompanied by a sweet
scent of flowers had rejuvenated the spirit of Joan who was sitting all alone on a
wooden bench. The soft rustling of leaves had created an amiable environment.
A hand holding a sickle cautiously proceeded in her direction and then true
peace reigned with the slush of blood.
IV
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A dark and gloomy night gave way to new daw with bright sunshine beaming
into Edwards room breaking his sound sleep. He yawned and looked at the clock
beside his bed. It was 7o clock in the morning and at this hour he would
generally be asleep in his house at Denver. After staring at the clock for some
time, he finally decided that it was wiser to get up from bed and share his views
with the rest of the group. Recollecting what he had managed to work out the
previous night, he knocked on Seras door. There was no reply and so he
presumed that she must have gone for a walk in the garden. So, half asleep he
turned the knob of Ronnies door and soon found that he too wasnt in his bed.
He found it really annoying that everybody else had woken up at an earlier hour
than him. Before he could sit and brood on this issue, his attention was caught
by a figure which just passed by the window. He unbolted it and as he did so lost
his balance and fell on the other side on some creepers which acted as cushion
and saved him from bruising himself. It was Rob, the camera man of the TV crew
who came to his aid.
Thanks.Ed spokeHe noticed the worried expression on his face. An unusual uneasiness was
present on Robs face.
Whats the matter? You seem perturbed.Ed asked
Its Joan, we havent seen her since last evening.Rob replied with his voice
stuttering a little bit
We had a little quarrel and then she parted with us and went over to the garden.
Mr. Gordon, the owner of this inn claims that she has been taken by the spirits as
she had committed sacrilege by looking for the holy treasure. Rob continued
At this moment Ed was joined by Sera and the others who jumped over thehedge and destroyed a very beautiful sunflower that was about to bloom.
Did you hear about that gibberish about a ghost kidnapping that Joan
woman?Jack asked
To me, its plane as a pikestaff. She has been murdered.Ronnie commented
All eyes focused on him except for Eds who seemed to have grasped the
situation with ease.
Lets see. Joan was in the garden when she was murdered. Right?Ed asked the
others
Yeah. Mr. Gordon says that he saw her sitting on the bench over there, next to
that grassy path.Sera repliedMaybe we can find something useful over there.
By the way, get our first aid box, we may need it.
How can a first aid box be useful to help a murdered person?Jack asked
hoarsely
Just do as I say Jack, you will soon realize what I intend to do.Ed replied calmly
Jack hurriedly rushed to the door where he nearly collided with Mr. Gordon who
stopped him, much to his annoyance.
Where are you off to, young boy?
Jack noticing a sickle in his hand forgetting all his polished manners shouted:
What the hell? Whats that?
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Surely you know that this is a sickle. I use it to trim the hedge.Mr. Gordon
replied like a priest replying to a disciple
Reacting to Jacks hoarse voice, Ronald also came running where Mr. Gordon was
standing with the sharp sickle in his hand. He noticed an unusual shine on it as if
it had been recently cleaned with sand paper and washed thoroughly.
Mr. Gordon, may I ask you one question?Ronald asked in his polite manner
Go right ahead.Mr. Gordon replied looking bemused by the whole situation
I saw that sickle in your hand kept over the cupboard next to the dining table
last night. At that juncture, I was observed it thoroughly after noticing that it had
a Japanese hologram on it. It was totally rusted but now it seems very clean and
sharp.
Mr Gordon grinned.
Oh that! I too was very surprised to see that it was clean in the morning. I had
broken my older sickle a few days ago and was quite pleased that someone
cared so much for me that he had cleaned and washed this rusted on.
A very likely story!Allan whispered into Ronnies earJack appeared with the first aid kit and handed it over to Ronald who took out a
bottle containing some sort of fluid. He poured some of it over the sickle and
bubbles evolved.
You see! This fluid reacts with blood to release oxygen clearly pointing out that
this is the murder weapon!Ronald explained weighing each word in his mind
before speaking
Well done Ronnie, now where could the murderer have hidden the body?Ed
asked with excitement written all over his face
Hey guys come and look over here.Seras voice boomed from another part of
the garden
Distinct marks were visible on the muddy soil similar to what a wheelbarrow
makes. Ronnie poured some more of the fluid near the bench where he supposed
Joan had been the previous night. Bubbles formed again bringing satisfaction to
him that his theory was quite feasible.
Suddenly Edward commented from behind:
Of course! Thats how the murder must have taken place.
Startled by Eds sudden speech, Jack spoke disbelievingly:
Common Ed, throw a little light on the case. How can you say whos the
murderer.He never said that he had found the murder. He just wants to elaborate how
the murder had taken place.Allan explaining the situation clearly to his fathead
companion
Joan after that feud with the other members of the TV crew came here and sat
on this very bench. Meanwhile, someone treaded quietly behind her and using
that sickle killed her. As a result some of the blood spilled on to the ground which
that the special fluid just illuminated. If you carefully observe, youll notice that
the ground has been recently turned over to hide the blood traces. Now we will
probably come to know where the body is hidden by following those wheel
marks. A wheelbarrow was probably used to carry the body away from the crimescene.
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But thats crazy! Why should Joan be murdered?Kyle spoke
Sorry for intruding in you private matters. But I overheard your little talk last
night. I clearly heard that Ms Joan exhibited no intention of sharing her little
secret about the treasure with you. Maybe that was a threat to the murderer so
he got her out of the way.
You mean to say one of our crew members are the murderers?
I never said that. Everyone in the village falls under suspicion. We cant count
anyone out. You are no special suspect. Anyways, lets not waste our time here.
We must find that body.
Pursuing the tyre marks left by the wheelbarrow, after a long walk accompanied
by the members of the TV crew, the young detectives reach a cemetery much to
do their surprise. Instantaneously a little cry escaped from Eds mouth:
Of Course, thats it! What an ingenious idea to conceal the corpse in the
cemetery where no one would ever think of searching for it there.
Without paying much attention to young Eds little explanation Mr Gordon starts
minutely inspecting the graves. He makes an interesting discovery and calls over
the tenants of his inn.
Look here amateur detective kiddos. Some freshly turned soil.
As he was speaking, a young man with long black well combed hair appeared
from the bushes that were just in front of the tunnel that led to Spirit village. Mr
Gordon spotted the entrance of this stranger and greeted him warmly.
Ah son, come on! We have some work to do. Bring me a shovel.
What do you want a shovel for, dad? I came here to give you those sacred
masks you askedfor. Replied the young man
Sir, sorry to interrupt but who are you?Sera asked in a querulous tone
The young man replied cheerfully:
I am Richard, the son of the innkeeper Mr Gordon. I also own an inn on the other
side of this tunnel in the Spirit village. I came over here to give my dad those
masks he had asked me to deliver as he wanted to rent them to some visitors
who had shown interest in visiting the spirit village.
You need to wear the mask to enter the Spirit village?questioned Ronnie
Yes, in fact you do need to be in possession of the sacred mask if you wish to
enter the Spirit village otherwise the oracle, our spiritual head will prohibit youfrom entering the town as it would anger the spirits. I also just took off my mask
when I was in the tunnel. I can show you the mask since you are really curious.
OH MY GOD, LOOK HERE!
Mr Gordon and the TV crew members had been busy digging the grave which Mr.
Gordon had claimed to be recently laid down. A dim figure with blonde hair and
pale face lied in that grave with fresh and deep injuries around her neck.
Hmm, so its Joan. Cant say I am surprised. smirked Amy
How can you say that! Your friend has just been murdered.Jack replied to
Amys remark
We should call the police at once. Jack see to it at once.Ronnie ordered takingcharge of the proceedings.
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Focusing his attention towards Mr. Gordon he spoke:
You see, this woman has been murdered, stabbed to death and you still believe
that this is the work of a spirit.
Before Ronnie could complete what he was about to saw, few cops accompanied
by Jack and Ruth, the girl form the Gourd village in walking towards the scene
where the victims corpse had been found.
The police are here already. I never knew the clutches of law were those quick
to sniff a crime.Ed spoke surprised
This is no time to Joke around Ed, we are facing a very serious situation.Sera
replied coldly totally appalled by her brothers humorous approach towards the
whole situation
What are these kids doing at the crime scene? They can destroy important
evidence. said the inspector
We are special detective team sent by the Detective School of Denver to
investigate the mysterious disappearances of the university students who camehere in hunt for treasure. We are fully authorized to undertake the task of the
observation of the crime scene and find the person who is behind these brutal
crimes through any means possible. Here are our badges. Explained Ronnie
Very well, then I shall assist you in your investigation. I have been in charge of
this case since quite a time and I must accept that I have been totally ruffled by
the nature of these so called disappearances. I think you have found the body of
on such victim.
Yes we have inspector. We also believe that the missing university students met
the same fate as the TV crew member we found and have been concealed in this
very graveyard. I am sure there corpses will be found if we dig up all thesegraves.
Very well, I shall do that as well. But I strongly advise you to be on your guard
as a murderer is somewhere in the vicinity.
Thank you inspector, we shall take every precaution to prevent injuries to
ourselves and prevent any more murders from taking place. Anyways, how did
you arrive so early?
This young girl, Ruth reported the whole scenario to us and we set off for here
at once.
I thought you would require police assistance when you uncover the body so I
reported the incident as soon as you left Ed. explained RuthThank you very much Ruth for your presence of mind. It prevented wastage of
time and probably another murder. replied the inspector cheerfully
Common everybody let the police handle this from now. We will be hurdle her so
lets go. said Jack
In the meanwhile, Richard, Mr Gordons son and keeper of the inn at Spirit
village departed back for the Spirit village though the tunnel .The TV crew and
the students of the Detective School also departed from the scene back towards
the inn. If one was on a holiday, one would have admired the natural beauty of
the picturesque locality but in this tense mood, everyone had a grave look ontheir faces. It was afternoon and everyone was hungry as they hadnt eaten
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anything since the last night. Allan was buried in his laptop even while he was
walking searching something through the laptops wireless internet connection.
Soon lunch was served by Ruth and Katy, the housekeeper who tried their best to
rejuvenate the spirit of the party who were in no sort of merry mood after what
they had seen a few moments ago. Ed barely gulped a single biscuit while his
stomach was actually throbbing for a real big meal and a delicious desert. Finally,
after a heartless lunch, the TV crew separated and went up to their respective
rooms whereas the detectives decided to plan their course of action in a small
meeting at Seras room.
V
The bright sunshine had given way to a grim and cloudy weather with an
insignificant drizzle starting to pour down. An observer may have expected that
such weather would have brought more desolation to the young detectives but
on the contrary they seemed to have recovered from the nasty shock of
witnessing a corpse lying on the ground. Melancholy existed even in the heartsof detectives who were supposed to have a skin made of stone and should not be
affected by atrocities. However, this was their first practical experience and even
aspiring detectives can be shaken by such an event taking place right in front of
their eyes. But time being the great healer had covered those small but painful
wounds.
Edward had finally found his appetite and had just finished devouring the
remains of the delicious meal which had seemed so tasteless to him at lunch.
Ruth had sent it up to Seras room as she thought that Ed being a teenager
should have eaten more if he wanted to remain healthy. They were supposed to
discuss their plan after lunch but Allans presence being indispensable haddelayed the meeting as he had not come out of his room after lunch. Sera had
fallen asleep after the tiring trip to the cemetery while Ronnie and Ed were
pondering over the recent turn of events. Till now they had been thinking that
they were here to investigate a stagnant crime which took place long time ago.
But their misunderstanding had been cleared after the recent murder of Joan. It
generated a thought that a murderer was on the loose and he/she had to be
stopped before another crime took place. A tap on the door broke Seras sound
sleep and she yawned in her bed.
Its me, Allan. said the voice from outside the door
Come in you dumb head, why rousing the whole place up.Jack spoke in histypical hoarse voice
The dory opened and Allan came in with a look on his which suggested that he
had made a remarkable discovery.
See this photograph.
He produced a crumbled photograph of a shovel.
Is this some kind of Joke, Allan?
Look at the back of this photograph and youll understand. Notice this symbol
and the word treasure scribbled beneath it. I found it in Joans bedroom when I
made a thorough search of her things just now.
You are more cunning than I thought. But I dont understand the meaning of thissymbol. It looks like the digit 8 has been rotated clockwise by 90 degrees.
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Jack showed the symbol to the others:
Hmm, so what have you concluded from it Allan?asked Ronnie
I was browsed the internet regarding it and found some very interesting
information. This symbol was used by the militarys special forces during the
Second World War. The teams identity had been kept in the dark as they were
working discreetly on developing a lethal weapon for biological warfare. However
when the Allies won the war before they had anticipated, the need of such a
dangerous weapon that could well have destroyed their own ranks subsided. So
they closed the operation. That accounts for why they built the Gourd and Spirit
villages in such remote areas surrounded on all sides by cliffs. They wanted to
conceal this project from the world. And how cleverly have they done this.
Just what is this weapon you are talking about?
This is the centre where a stronger species of smallpox viruses were being
developed by the military for warfare motives. Smallpox as we know was an
epidemic during that period of time and killed millions of people around the
world until the intensive vaccination over the globe finally eradicated the
disease. Its use in the war against the enemy would have led to the most horrific
of deaths. To conceal this fact, they created a plague cult, a few of their
members we are already acquainted with. Those freaky masks which all of us
noticed had dot like punctures all over it resembling the rashes, a smallpox
patient has all over his body. The plague cult scares away any stranger who isclose to learning this buried secret. There is no real treasure here.
Wow! You sure have done your homework. This opens up a new prospective and
throws some light why those so called disappearances or murders have taken
place. said Sera
To go deeper into this whole matter, we must pay a visit to Spirit village. But the
problem is that we must be in possession those holy masks in order to enter the
village or we will be prohibited from entering. Mr. Gordon the innkeeper rents
those masks but the TV crew has hired most of the masks leaving only one to
him. Another one is available, that of Miss Joan. Only two of us can go over to
Spirit village through another creepy tunnel which the only route for us to getthere.
Ok, well decide now who will go to Spirit village while the rest of the group
stays here. Heres a match box.Ronnie shoved it from his pocket
He took out two matches and burned them, took the other matches out one by
one until only five remained inside along with the two burned ones. He spoke:
Well each draw a match stick from its rear part and the ones wholl get the
burned ones will go to Spirit village.
The group sat down in a circle and one by one drew a match form its box. Edswas the first one but he drew out an intact match. Jack and Allan followed suit
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and drew a match but like Ed managed to find an intact one meaning none of
those three would be going for that trip to Spirit village. This clearly pointed out
that the responsibility to wade into the territory of cult maniacs was in the
shoulders of Sera and Ronnie. The discussion closed here and the meeting ended
with satisfactory results and everybody returned to their rooms with each person
knowing what he had to do next day.
VI
Another long day had passed and after an early breakfast, the detectives
were on course to the spirit village. The whole group had decided to accompany
Sera and Ronnie to till the exit of the tunnel as they perceived that travelling in
numbers was always better. They were midway through the tunnel when they
heard footsteps ahead from the spiral staircase. It was not a dark tunnel and
there was plenty of light streaming from artificial bulbs which were embedded at
equal distances on the roof. This fact had taken off some of the anxiety fromtheir minds. After taking some brisk steps they soon found out that the TV crew,
like them were journeying towards the Spirit village as well. Deep fog had been
prevalent that morning and visibility out in the open was drastically low. One
couldnt see a few metres ahead of him but such a problem was not a cause of
worry inside the tunnel as the mist hadnt penetrated inside as yet. Though the
bright and sunny weather as it had been the previous two days would have
provided a chirpy environment, the group still seemed in high spirits. They
joined the TV crew and walked beside them as they decided that even greater
numbers wont do any harm to their security. No one had spoken a word until
now but the silence was broken by Amy who started boasting about somethingand from the look on her face one wouldnt have guessed that recently a tragedy
had stunned this group with one of their fellow members being murdered. Finally
they arrived at the exit which revealed a foggy scene in which nothing could be
seen. At some distance from entrance stood two men wearing those plague cult
masks with a staff in their hands and dressed in white robes. Between them
stood a man with grey hair with a similar mask but his outfit suggested that he
was a higher tier official than the other two. The groups perception was right as
the two blokes on his side introduced him:
The oracle orders you to wear the masks in your possession of if you intend to
enter the Spirit village. Those without the holy masks will be denied entrance.May luck guide you Ronnie. You take care as well Sera.Allan wished them good
luck
Meanwhile the TV crew were busy putting on their masks while Amy requested to
hold on to Robs video camera.
What do you want it for?asked Rob
I have figured out where the treasure lies and I am going to shoot a film
projecting me as I approach the treasure. And dont worry, as soon as I find it Ill
share it with you but the profit I get from selling this film on the big screen, Ill
keep for myself.
All right Joan but handle my precious camera with care.
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With these words the conversation ended and Ed, Allan and Jack started for their
return Journey while Ronnie and Sera despite the fog found their way to the inn
of Spirit village owned by Mr Gordons son Richard whom they had already met
at the graveyard. This was a similar sort of inn like that in Gourd village with a
beautiful rose garden built all around it enhancing its beauty. It was quite cold
and Ronnie along with Sera sat down on a table next to the window to have a
warm cup of coffee. The window presented a view of a magenta coloured wall
with vines overgrowing and the dampness had seeped in and destroyed all the
lustre which it must have once possessed. From the outside it resembled a
religious haven. They queried about it from Mr Richard who was attending to
their wishes.
Who lives in that awkward looking place there?
Thats where the Oracle lives. Nobody except him can enter that holy building
and if someone tries he will face the anger of the spirits. Dont potter around
there. Otherwise youll get into trouble.
There were agricultural fields with electricity poles around them surrounding the
Oracles temple. As they were observing the scenery, they saw a faint figure with
a camera in its hands loitering around in the open. They didnt pay much
attention to it and quietly sipped their coffee.
Ed and Allan had separated from Jack who had parted ways with them to
question the locals to gather any sort of information while they examined the
geography of the place. As they were examining the hills, one fact which caught
their eye was that the cliffs had been dug further making holes which didnt
seem a result of natural weathering, but that a shovel had been used to make iteven more difficult for scaling.
Doesnt that look strange to you? Ed asked
Not really. replied Allan
Why?
The army which founded these two villages would have wanted to make this an
inaccessible zone so they must have scorched the cliff to make it impossible for
climbing.
Then if they wanted to really isolate these two villages then why didnt they
demolish the tunnel as well?They wanted to keep the option of further research into the biological weapon
open so maybe thats why they never closed the tunnel and drove the
inhabitants out.
Then where exactly is this research facility which you are speaking about?
I dont know. I am bewildered as much as you are.
They continued to stroll around minutely observing things and their eyes were
beginning to hurt as spotting something in such low visibility took a toll on the
most precious sense. As they reached the west corner of the village after finding
their way out of the wilderness of the swampy rice fields they found a damstanding magnificently with all its pride.
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What a weird place to build a dam!said Ed
What the hell did they need a dam for? It doesnt even look as if it is functional
and is just a showpiece.
Recently, many disadvantages of multi-purpose projects faced harsh criticism
for causing environmental damage and anti-dam activists forced the government
to close many such dams all over the country. But I dont think any activist must
have reached this remote place. You know, things just dont seem to fit in.
Maybe you are right but lets not hang about here. Theres nothing more to see
more to see and we have already scouted the whole area without finding
anything worthy.
My gut feeling doesnt quite agree with you Allan. Lets hope Jack comes up with
some news.
They returned to the inn again wading through the rice field ending up drenched
with mud. Jack was having a peaceful lunch with waffles and pancakes scatteredon the table and him pouncing on them like a hungry wolf. Allan and Ed looked
disgruntled seeing him feasting like this while they were out in the cold
negotiating their way through wet ground.
What the hell are you doing?shouted Ed
Having my lunch, cant you see?
We agreed on you talking to the locals.
I accomplished the job given to me with sincerity so I have earned a well
deserved lunch, so stop your whining.
So tell us what you found?Not a single person knew too much about the plague cult or the murders. All of
them were behaving like simple innocent peasants living peacefully far from the
worries of the world.
That doesnt get us anywhere. We are back to square one.
So thats why you should stop worrying and relax.
Ok.
The inn of the Spirit village was in total chaos. People were running hither and
thither. Sera had just finished her coffee and was going back to her room when
she was met by Kyle, the producer of the TV crew on the way.You are a detective arent you?he asked
Yes I am.Sera replied as she didnt want to debate on the topic
Then help us find Amy. Shes missing.
When did you last see her?
She was out in the fields hunting for the treasure. She was supposed to be back
an hour ago.
Did you look for her out in the open rice fields?
Thats where we are heading to. Please accompany us and assist us in the
search.
Ill follow you.
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Sera met Ronnie on the doorway and asked him to come along as well. The
search party hunted for Amy everywhere with mist being a huge hindrance but a
after a thorough search she was not found. Disappointed and tired, Kyle, Ville
and Rob along with Sera and Ronnie after a fruitless search came back
somewhere in the evening. Night fell and after dinner everyone went straight to
bed.
VII
Next morning the mist had finally scattered and had given way to a bright and
sunny morning and Amy still hadnt returned till breakfast. There was no sign of
concern over the TV crews face. On the contrary they seemed bemused that
Amy had been struck down by the curse of the treasure as well and it was up to
them to finally latch on to the precious booty. Mr Richard presented a camera on
the breakfast table and asked if it belonged to them.
What a bad condition my precious camera is in. That Amy will pay for this. saidRob
If she is alive, then only your wish will come true. remarked Ville
Perhaps we can check the film which probably Amy recorded to find what
happened to her. suggested Ronnie
Good idea, kid! Lets plug it into my laptop right away.
Amy appeared on the screen speaking the following words:
Sorry for the camera shake but I cant hold steady with one hand. This is a really
exciting hunt for treasure. I have found the exact location where it lies. Up in
front is an avenue which leads to the paddy and rice fields. The deep fog hasmade the path invincible and I am barely being able to manage my way through.
Here to my right is a stack of branches and up in front the rice fields I have been
talking about all along. Ill switch off the camera here to save my batteries. I will
continue to anchor this show as soon as I get more near to the treasure.
That was all. The tape was blank after this meaning it hadnt been switched on
after that. Ronnie quickly raised a question pointing towards Mr. Richard:
Where did you find this camera?
I found it kept on the doorway, this morning. Someone had left it there.Do you know who left it?
It could have been any of the locals. Knowing that you are the only ones using
these weird gadgets, he would have left it on the inns doorway.
Common Sera, we have to find that avenue and the pile of branches and then
well get a clue about the whereabouts of Amy.
The door swung open and the two set of on the paved path that was barely
visible the previous night but now it shone with all its glory in the bright
sunshine. They had to jump over the hedge as it had overgrown and jammed the
gate. The rice crop was dancing with the gentle breeze and the tree leaves wereswaying along with the soothing wind. Sera and Ronnie took a short cut to the
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only avenue that was in existence in the village. The scattered ray of light made
it very difficult to spot something on the ground which was half in the shade
while the other half was covered with sunlight. They noticed the pile of branches
where Joan was standing and distinct foot prints were implanted on the muddy
ground from which the crop had been recently harvested. But much to the
bewilderment of the two, the footprints disappeared in the middle of the field.
What, those footprints are only to the middle of the field as if someone had
been lifted up in the air. said Sera
A perfect delusion to cover up a crime and make it look as if the victim was
taken by the spirits. Dont you think so as well?
Huh?
Think Sera. Our murderer has been stuck to his plan of covering up his crimes
by making it look as if ghosts and gods had taken away that person. I am a
hundred percent sure that Amy fell victim to this maniac as she had sealed her
fate by discovering the some sort of forbidden secret.But we got to know what this secret is if we have to uncover this mystery. Do
you think that Amy has been murdered as well?
Yeah, I think so.
Wait, I got it, how the murder must have taken place.
Really Sera, how did you figure it out so quickly?
Its simple; the murderer left too many clues. Amy wasnt murdered here. She
must have fallen victim somewhere else. He just came here and made all this
footprints himself to deceive the police and convince everybody in the village
that she was taken by the gods for committing sacrilege.
Spill the beans. How was the killer able to conceal his footprints after reachingthe middle of the field?
It was easy to figure that out! He simply walked backwards. Did you notice that
the field is still quite wet? See over there at the edge of the field.
Yes, theres a rubber dinghy kept all covered with mud.
That was used by the killer to negotiate his way to the middle of the field. Then
he simply lifted the dinghy on to his back and walked backwards creating that
illusive impression.
Quite a clever way to deceive someone.
Yes, but it doesnt change the fact that two murders have taken place and we
havent been able to get one step closer towards the murderer.I have got a hunch that its the oracle thats behind this. He lives in that strange
looking temple and wears a mask all the time. Plus nobody has seen his face.
Quite true, but we have no evidence against him.
I have a plan in my mind to lure the oracle to pour all his secrets out. Whats the
time?
9:30 AM
Good, thats the time the oracle shows up and sees visitors. Lets pay him a
visit.
Retracing their path Sera and Ronnie went back to the inn where rumours hadalready spread about Amy being spirited away with her footmarks disappearing
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after she was in the middle of a field. Ronnie knew that trying to convince the
locals about what really happened will surely result in a futile effort. However,
the crowd had not gathered to gossip about the disappearance but had come to
worship the holy oracle who was just about to step out of the religious haven.
The door of the shrine opened and the oracle dressed in the same way as he had
the previous day conveyed something to Mr Richard through sign language.
Ronnie whispered to Sera:
He uses sign language to communicate. Now why is it so?
Before she could reply Mr. Richard interrupted her speech:
The Oracle has handed down his judgment for the five persons who committed
blasphemy by disturbing the tranquillity of the holy treasure by attempting to
pillage its grand wealth. Two of them have already faced the wrath of the gods
and have been spirited away to hell while the other three by the command of the
Oracle will be banished from Spirit village forever and will not be allowed to set
foot on this holy land ever again. The Oracle also prophesizes that tonight in
Gourd village another person will be spirited away by the gods.
Ronnies patience ended when he heard the last line. He spoke in a feebly as he
was always did when he was flushed with anger.
You are claiming that another murder will take place tonight. As the Oracle is
prophesising such an inevitable event, then surely he is the one murdering all
the people around here.
You fool! You dare accuse the Oracle for committing such atrocities. You will be
struck down by a bolt of lightning right now!shouted one of the villagers
The Oracle made some signs with his hand that his apprentice Mr Richard
spontaneously mediated it to words:The Oracle speaks that a holy man like him is nothing in front of the gods. He
cannot interfere in his affairs and spiriting away of those ghouls was the will of
god. But to satisfy your curiosity, you can watch the tunnel entrance from the
watchtower till tomorrow morning and see for yourself that a person will still be
spirited away in Gourd village despite him not leaving his shrine at all.
Thats fine by me. Common we are off to the watchtower.
The crowd dispersed with an expression of understanding on their faces.
Meanwhile Sera suggested to Ronnie:
Maybe, we should telephone Ed about this and warn him to stay on his guardand prevent this murder from happening. There are cordless phones in both the
inns so contacting them wont be a problem.
Good suggestion. I will do so while you take up you position in the watchtower.
Keep a close watch and record the names of whoever passes through the
tunnel.
Ok.
Ronnie opened the door and found the inn deserted and helped himself to the
cordless phone which was kept at the desk next to the inns register. He opened
up the telephone diary which he found in the tables drawer. After searching awhile for the Gourd inns number he finally found it on the special numbers
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list. He rapidly dialled the number and waited for the response. It was Mr
Gordon who picked up the receiver at the other end.
Halloo.
Is is the Gourd village inn?
Yes, who do you want to speak to?
Edward Sanchez, one of the inns guests.
Wait a minute; Ill have to call him from his room.
After a brief interval Eds voice came through the telephone.
Yeah, sis what do want?
Its me Ed.
Oh Ronnie, whats up?
Ronnie explained the whole story of the Oracle and his prophecy briefly including
the details of Amys disappearance and waited for Eds reaction:
Ill keep an eye on everyone around here. We cant let another murder happen
right under our noses. You keep watching the tunnel and keep in contact through
telephone. We have a cordless one here. You have the same type?Yes, I am speaking through a cordless phone as well.
Thats good. Bye for now.
Bye.
Ronnie walked briskly back towards the watchtower which was only a metres
away from the inns entrance and found Sera already busy with the binoculars
scouting far off places.
We have to watch the tunnel, not the stars.remarked Ronnie
Thats what Eds company does to a person; otherwise you would never have
dared to talk to me like that.
Really, but we should really be concentrating at the tunnel.
The sky had darkened considerably and clouds were hovering in the sky. All of a
sudden it started to pour down followed by lightning bolts dancing in the sky. A
similar atmosphere was prevalent in Gourd village as well. Ed, Jack and Allan
were brooding on a chair when an ecstasy in Eds manner made the other two
guys fall from their chairs.
Whats the matter Ed?queried Allan
Hey, the inspector said he will be digging up the graves today and inspect the
bodies today, didnt he?
Yes.Then Ill pay him a visit.
Hey Ed, wait for us.
Before they could even twitch a muscle Ed grabbed an umbrella and shot out of
the door. Since there was no other umbrella around Allan suggested that it was
wiser for them to stay indoors than getting drenched by following their pip
squeak friend. Meanwhile Ed had already reached the cemetery after running at
a pace after which even Carl Lewis would have been a little hesitant to
challenge, the young racing champ. The inspector and some other cops had
taken shelter under a large banyan tree surrounded by dead bodied covered withtarpaulin to prevent them from coming in contact with the water.
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What are you doing in this rain?the inspector shouted
I came to ask you about your investigation.
Yes, we found the bodies of all the missing university students. Astonishingly,
we also found a young lady with a broken neck who had most probably recently
died due to asphyxiation.
Asphy.. what?
Choking, I mean. the inspector cleared his throat
So whats astonishing about this discovery?
The interesting aspect of the matter is that I saw her the other day when that
girl Joan had been murdered, standing there, trembling like a leaf with rest of
that Hollywood group.
Let me have a look at her.Ed spoke hesitatingly
Here. The inspector uncovered the face of one of the corpses as Ed treaded
quietly towards it. He caught a glimpse of the face and immediately recognized
the pimpled face of Amy. She was stone cold and her face was pale.
Ed reeled as he could not understand the gist of the whole mystery. He spoketotally distraught as the umbrella was blown away by a strong surge of wind:
But how could this be? The woman had been murdered in Spirit village. So how
come her body be here?
You know if I were you, I would head back to the inn and change my clothes. If
you stay here, Im certain youll fall victim to a nasty cold.
Ed stood motionless and still. He was so deep in his thoughts that the inspectors
words seemed to him like a dream. A lightning bolt which fell on a nearby tree
set it on fire which made Ed run amok as he had unconsciously fallen down right
in front of it and a burning branch had fallen right on top of his coat. Although
the rain had extinguished the fire, Ed still scared to death ran or rather flew witha speed which would have certainly won him an Olympic gold medal had he been
racing in the athletic arena. However the stony path which acted as Eds
competitor won a consolation prize as he got bruised by some protruding twigs
which lied in the path. He banged open the inn door making Allan and Jack jump
up in the air once again but this time making a new record by reaching a height
of 10 inches off the chair.
Whats the matter with you?Allan spoke totally aghast at the spectacle in front
of him
Quick, wheres the telephone.
He snatched the cordless phone off its stand redialled the number of Spiritvillages inn but no one answered the phone. After trying a couple more times,
Ed gave up.
Somethings wrong, nobody is answering the phone. We must check up on
Ronnie and Sera. I feel something bad has happened.
But we cant go in this rain. Well be soaked and wind wont allow us to get
much far.
I have sturdy raincoat, I can check up on your friends. Said Ruth who had been
listening to their conversation closely
Thats very kind of you.
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She went back to her room and came out wearing a blue raincoat. She opened
the inns door and disappeared into the heavy rain.
VIII
Anxiety and desolation had crept into the atmosphere of Gourd villages inn as
no news from Ruth had arrived up till now. The rain had stopped and had left a
very chilly temperature right in the midst of summer. It was round about evening
time when the telephone finally rang. Ed quickly pounced on the receiver.
Hello, is it you Ruth?asked Ed
Yes. I hadnt been able to call before as rain had clogged the telephone network
for a brief while. Atchoo she sneezed
Bless you! So why hadnt Ronnie or Sera or anybody else at the inn there
answered the ring.
As I told you, the network was jammed so it may have seemed to you as if the
phone on the opposite end was ringing but in reality it didnt utter a single
sound.So where are Sera and Ronnie?
They have just finished their dinner at the watchtower and are continuing their
observation. Ronald said that hell call back later on.
Meanwhile, a faint sound of glass breaking from one of the inns rooms attracted
Eds attention. He asked Ruth to hold on as he climbed the stairs and stopped in
front of a door which had been left slightly open. He knocked softly but received
no response so he blew open the door only to witness another horrifying
spectacle. On the bed, he saw Mr Kyle lying motionless. He had been stabbed in
his heart through a white sheet of cloth. The window panes had been shatteredand small glass pieces lay scrambled on the floor as blood trickled from the
producers body. He gazed though the broken window but so no trace of anyone
whatsoever in the vicinity. Jack who had been perturbed by Edwards sudden
change in manner finally caught up with him.
Oh my god!
Egad! The Oracles prophecy was true. added Allan
Oh yeah call it a prophecy instead of a clod blooded murder!
The boys informed the landlady about the recent event and the police was
instantly called in. They had been on their toes since the strange disappearances
but had been dumbstruck up till now by the sheer cleverness of the crimes andhad failed to prevent yet another murder from happening. It was the same
inspector Dobbs who came to investigate the crime scene. After sealing of the
victims room, he called each resident of the inn to the dining room and started
questioning them one by one. The three detectives listened closely to the
answers which were quite uninteresting and brought them to yet another dead
end. Ed broodingly headed towards the recipients desk and slowly dialled the
number of an inn across the tunnel. Ronnie answered:
Hello?
Ronnie let me get you abreast with the whole situation.
Ok.
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Another murder has taken place. Mr. Kyle, the producer of the TV crew was
stabbed to death while he was asleep. I was talking on the phone with Ruth at
that time. Say sorry to her for the sudden abruption of our conversation.
I will but I cant see her anywhere right now and whats more no one went
through the tunnel the whole day. The Oracle has a rock solid alibi so we cant
suspect him anymore.
I am not so sure. Well anyways, Ill call you again tomorrow morning.
Replacing the receiver in its holder, Ed retired to bed like the others who had
been advised by the police to get some rest. They would return in the morning
for further interrogation.
IX
The night of the murder had given away to yet another dawn of bright sunshine.
None of the inns residents had managed to get a sound sleep and some of them
had been so frightened that they kept the lights on the whole night so that no
murderer could crawl and stab them in the dark. They would not have had such
an apprehension about the whole situation if the police had been obliging
enough to apprise them about the true fact that Mr Kyle had been murdered
when the lights were glowing with all their strength, up in his room.
Nearly every inhabitant of the inn left the bed early to bathe and take
soothing walk in the morning sunshine to reduce the burden of such disturbing
events that had pursued since the murder of Joan. Such a mood was prevalent inthose young minds of Jack and Allan but this was not so in the case of their
companion, Ed. He had been preoccupied the whole time trying very hard to find
the smallest bit of lead towards solving this bewildering mystery. It was quite an
irony to see Ville and Rob in merry and cheerful moods. Their intimates had been
brutally murdered but this fact didnt make them wince even once. Quite
contrasting to the whole atmosphere, they seemed to be the merriest souls on
earth. The others around them were stunned to see this sort of attitude towards
fellow crew members. They had finally driven home the true reality about these
two men that they were from no angle conscientious or believed in ethics.
Far from the gossip about Rob and Ville, Ed had been pondering on theissue of the Oracles alibi. He knew that the Oracle was behind all this mess but
the big snug was that he didnt have any proof. How he had managed to escape
to Gourd village, commit a crime and disappear into thin air was beyond him.
There were four pieces in this jigsaw puzzle which had a very conspicuous link
between them which none had been able to discover. Joan had been beheaded
with the help of a sharp sickle and then cunningly buried in the local cemetery.
The plan to get rid of Amy had been descent but a professional eye like that of
his sister Sera instantly figured out the whole plan. The third murder was more
sophisticated in terms of planning. The Oracle had predicted it in the Spirit
village. Since there was no one who used the tunnel which was the only way toget to Gourd village, the previous day. Of course, an accomplice of the Oracle
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could have sneaked in accomplished his tasked but this was impossible as no
one in the Gourd village except his friends was in possession of this fact. The
only telephone network that connected the two villages had been the cordless
receivers in the two inns which could have been used without them noticing it.
So this option was out of question as well. The reason that drove his suspicion
towards the Oracle was the simple fact that he had deliberately created a very
sound alibi for himself. Time had been passing quickly while Ed had been
pondering on this issue and after a quick glance towards the sun; his brain
cranked up and started functioning with full capacity. Light dawned upon him as
he figured out a way to unravel the whole mystery. These wild shots are often
wrong so Ed wanted to confirm his theory before putting it forward in front of
others. Grabbing up that old receiver, he dialled Ronnies number or rather the
Spirit inns number.
Hello Ronnie. If you are on a cordless go to the tunnel and stand facing away
from it and tell me on which side of your hand do you see the sun. Said Edward
Have you gone nuts? asked RonnieDo as I say and quickly. Ed spoke austerely
Ronnie not willing to argue any further followed his friends commands and
paced his way towards the tunnel as a brief silence ensued, The sun is on my
right hand side.
The sun is also on my right hand side. So I was right all along.Ed said joyfully
What are you driving at?
Ill explain it you right now. I am just coming over there to unveil this mystery. I
will accompany the two remaining TV crew members along with Jack and Allan.
You and Sera call everyone you find along with the police to the inn.
He replaced the receiver and tottered out of the room into the living apartments.
He drove out Rob and Ville out of their rooms by persuading them by saying that
their presence during the uncovering of the murderer was indispensible. After
some pleading, they finally agreed to follow Ed. The whole group comprising of
Ed, Jack, Mr. Gordon, Allan, Rob, Ville and Katy finally set off for their destination.
Ed and Allan constantly murmured something to each other during their journey
through the tunnel when Allan buried himself in his laptop while walking and
typing simultaneously.
They received a warm welcome from Sera as they made their way to Mr.
Richardss inn. After everyone had settled down Edward began his speech. MrDobbs, the inspector spoke first:
So boy, you have found out who the criminal is?
Yes inspector. These murders were master planned and committed by the
famous Oracle.
What? Are you sure? Do you have any evidence?
Yes. Did you wonder why Mr Kyle was murdered in a very hap-hazard manner?
Yes, there were fingerprints on the knife which were probably of the killer.
Did you send it to the laboratory?
Of course but we have already tried comparing it with the fingerprints of the
people present in the inn. None of them were a perfect match.
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They did not match because none of them is the murderer.Ronnie spoke from
behind
You are right. The reason why the TV crew had been exiled from Spirit village as
they had sought entrance to the Oracles temple or to put it this way they had
tried to infiltrate the building and had been caught by the Oracle red-handed.
So why would anyone murder somebody for just sneaking into a building.
asked Jack
That well know after we dig a hole through the temples wall. But first, I must
tell you about the clues I had.
Yes please, Im listening very carefully and writing it down. It will be handy
during the prosecution of the culprit.
The first clue as I pointed out was the crudeness in the way in which the last
murder had been committed. After being exiled, Mr Kyle had found something
interesting about the temple you see from this window. He boasted about it in
public which wracked the nerve of the killer. He knew that his mouth had to be
shut up quickly so he engineered yet another crime. He even dared to usedetectives as alibis positioning them in the watchtower. All the while we thought
that the tunnel was the only link that connected these two villages. However,
theres another way one could pass from this side to the other.
What?? Theres another way from here to get to Gourd village without using the
tunnel.
Yes. The second clue about this alternative road to reach from side to another
was the position of the sun. Thats why I asked Ronnie to stand facing away from
the tunnel and inform me about the direction of the sun.
So what has the sun got to do with it?
Ronnie took charge of the proceedings from here:Do you want to know who the killer is?said Ronnie spicily attracting the
attention towards himself
You know as well?the detective seemed surprised
Ruth, you committed these crimes didnt you?Ronnie pointed his finger
towards her direction
WHAT!! How dare you accuse me.
You can confess now as we have figured out all your little tricks.
But... I was here with you in this very inn and talking to Ed when the murder
was committed so how could I have teleported to that place?said Ruth shaken
by Ronnies wordsCommon lets dig a hole in that darned wall. said Ronnie without listening to
any of Ruths remarks
Have you gone mad?
No. Youll soon know what I and Ed are driving at.
He grabbed a hammer and a punch and set off on his mission while the others
followed him in a state of total confusion. Following the grassy path which led to
the Oracles shrine, he chose a suitable spot on the temples wall, placed the
pointed end of the punch on that particular spot and handed it down to Jack who
hammered it with all his strength. After a few sharp noises, deep crack
appeared which soon widened. The wall finally gave away and collapsed in frontof them after sustaining such heavy blows.
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NOO! cried Ruth as the smoke which had enveloped around them started to
clear.
The view which presented in front of everyone brought astonishment on
everyones face except for the detectives who were grinning benevolently with a
sense of satisfaction. In front of them lied the view of Gourd village whose
greenery bounded by the cliffs shining in the bright sun appeared like a diamond
enclosed in case.
You see. This is the other way to get to Gourd village. Ruth posing as the Oracle
frequently used this door to our right to create a perfect alibi for herself. I bet
theres a jet pump installed somewhere in the hidden room which the door leads
which draws out groundwater and pumps it out on the other side which has been
carefully craft fully engineered so that it resembles a dam. Now I would like to
tell you how Ruth always managed to deceive the superstitious village people by
giving the impression of a person being spirited away while in reality she
committed a cold blooded murder. The first murder which took place after we
came here was that of Joan who had found out this very secret which I have justuncovered. If one takes an aerial view of this whole place which is quite
impossible with a helicopter because of the terrain but only is possible now days
with the help of satellite technology, he will find that the whole mountain had
been dug through in a shape of an eight rotated by ninety degrees to create a
biological research centre. It was shut down after the Second World War due to
sophisticated reasons which i neednt go into. But a tragedy happened and the
stronger species of small pox virus which was being developed at the centre
which was located somewhere in the real Spirit village leaked and spread havoc
among the populace. The credit of all this research goes to Allan who promptly
found out what I wanted on our way through the tunnel. Maybe he can explainyou better. Said Ed
Small pox being a highly infectious and horrible disease spread very rapidly
causing a number of deaths in the real Spirit village. By my emphasis on the
word real you might have understood that the place we are standing isnt the
original Spirit village. So the news of the deaths in the Spirit village spread to
Gourd village as well who didnt want to come in contact with the sick patients
sealed off their side of the tunnel, thus also sealing the fate of the villagers of
Spirit village. continued Allan
How horrible, I never thought someone could such an inhuman thing like that.
said SeraThe fate of the victims who were prevented from getting any medical assistance
as they were quarantined is not yet known. So as to bury their sins, the previous
generation of the Gourd village divided into and named one part as Spirit village
and this secret was not passed to the future generations and it died with the
passage of time. Apparently, I may be wrong about this statement as I am sure
that Ruth had very bit of information about it. All this I had collected from one of
the novels written by an author named Roderick Kendrick who was probably a
survivor who managed to escape the Sprit village before the sealing took place.
His work was considered to be fiction but when I set my eyes on it I immediately
understood that truth was written on every line of his novel. Carry on Ed and tellus how Ruth cleverly worked out her plans. he said pointing out to Edward
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Ok, now all would be wondering how I figured out the truth about the two
villages.
Yes please, tell me about it. I am still bewildered by it. replied the inspector
As I pointed out earlier, the position of the sun proved mu theory. As you can
now witness from the broken wall that these two places are adjacent to each
other. If they had been situated and connected by straight tunnel, when looking
at the sun facing away from the entrance I should have seen the sun on my right
hand side while a person facing away at the other side would have seen it on his
left hand side. This illuminated that we were facing the same direction. The spiral
staircase in the middle of the tunnel made us loose our sense of direction and
gave the apprehension that we were travelling in the same direction while in
reality we were taking a U- turn and heading back in the direction from where we
came from. This latter half of the tunnel must have been constructed afterwards
when the Gourdvillage had been split into two and given separate identities.
Now whoever found out this secret must not be able to reveal this secret to the
world. So as to shut his mouth, Ruth acting as the Oracle simply murdered them.I notice that Ruths sleeping room was adjacent to that of Joans and one could
clearly overhear the voices from the other room. When Ruth came across this
fact that Joan had uncovered the secret of the mysterious symbol engraved on
the back of the photograph found in the belongings of the missing university
student, she acted briskly and beheaded her with a sickle while she had gone out
in the garden to take a breather and disposed off her body in the graveyard.
After she had found out that we were planning to visit the false Spirit
village, she conveniently used the concealed door of the dam to take a shortcut,
pose as the Oracle and meet up with us at the tunnels exit along with Mr.
Richard in order to keep a close watch on us as her principle was that each andevery outsider was a threat. Soon she found out that Amy had too figured out the
location of the treasure i.e. the location of the real Spirit village and had been
filming the scene while she overpowered a skinny and frail Amy and strangled
her. She committed her first mistake here but burying her body in the Gourd
villages cemetery despite knowing that her secret hiding place had been already
discovered. All the show she put to look like it was another disappearance was
easily discovered and notified to the police through a secret document sent by
Sera. But something happened after this which wrecked the iron nerve of Ruth.
Kyle of the TV crew smuggled himself into the secret room of this so-called shrine
which was totally unexpected on the part of Ruth who had till now crafted eachof her murders to the very last detail. But her ingenious brain functioned briskly
and sought out a plan which could create a perfect alibi for herself completely
relying on a foundation of sand i.e. formulated a plan based on the false fact that
this U-turn tunnel is the only course which could be taken to get to the other
side. She found the golden opportunity she needed when I requested her to pay
a visit to Ronnie and Sera. This time she used the tunnel and after a brief
conversation with my sister Sera picked up a cordless phone and used her secret
Ruth to get back to Gourd villages inn. I heard her sneeze on the phone. She had
probably got wet despite the raincoat and had caught a cold while making her
getaway. All this while, she also calmly conversed with me on the phone. She hadpossessed much grit and determination but she had a phobia for the police and
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she knew that she would have spilled the beans in front of them if exposed to
eye to eye conversation so she formulated such a sophisticated plan. So Ruth,
will you confess now?asked Ed after his lengthy speech
You have got me know. Yes, i confess to all the murders which I have committed
but this was Gods will. I was destined to protect my familys secrets. My
grandfather had been one of those men who had sealed the tunnel and he had
been made the guardian who had to prevent this secret from leaking to the
world. This would have resulted in catastrophic epidemics and in Armageddon
with the leakage of the virus which was a hundred percent fatal. I was my
grandfathers heir and I took over as the guardian and committed murders one
after another without any hesitation as I was protecting the world acting by
Gods intentions. My grandfather also instructed me to pour this holy water over
me filled with those fatal micro-organisms if this truth was discovered and shall
do it according to his wishes.
Before anyone could twitch a muscle, she uncorked the test tube ad wasabout to pour it over herself when Jack landed a strong uppercut onto her jaw
and knocked her unconscious while the test tube became airborne. Allan despite
his small stature leaped into the sky and grasped the bottle without spilling even
one drop. He put the cork back into its rightful place and handed it to the
inspector.
Dont you understand?Ronnie shouted addressing Ruth
What do you mean?she said sobbing after regaining her consciousness
The only selfish reason that your grandfather had been to protect himself from
the sin he had committed by locking those poor souls to a frightful death.Common lets me show you something. He just dragged you into his own mess.
X
He made his way through the tunnel followed by the whole group with Ruth
tightly clutched by the inspector. Through a dark and narrow passage they
reached another opening which hadnt been there earlier.
When did you find this thing, Ronnie? asked Allan
When Ed asked about the suns position, I suddenly remembered Sera tellingme about the strange appearance of one of the walls. I immediately understood
what she meant to convey. Thanks to her photographic memory, I was able to
find the exact spot which she thought was dubious and I immediately mined my
way through it. Look for yourself what lies across this dark dungeon.
A grand view presented itself with beautiful green grass laid down like a
carpet and maple trees in full bloom all bathing in the sunshine. The tranquillity
of the whole place struck everyone as special. On the far horizon after the steep
plain, they could see the debris of the old research centre covered by cute small
cottages. This was surely a heaven on earth.
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You see, your grandfather was wrong that when he told you that the disease
was a 100 percent fatal. There were survivors who thrived despite being isolated
from the world.
What have I done?she collapsed onto the ground crying quietly as the
inspector carried her away followed by the inn owners leaving behind the
detectives all alone. After a lengthy silence Sera asked:
What should we do now?
We must have a long vacation at this very spot. We truly deserve it. replied
Ronnie
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