The Silver Ridge Plateaus Story 15 …(Originally Created 2017)

(Altered Mar 30.) … The money grabbing world cannot come here. No commercials.

.The Rollings.
.Gun Play.
.Secrets of Phantom Plateau.
.A Drunken Ordeal.
.Distant Whisper.

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Intro.
… In his homeland, this young man was very smart and had become very rich as working his way up in business world. He wanted to own land but did not wish all the hustle-bustle of a business life. He found this ad on net of owning a mountain scape, to escape to. He went himself to the area and dickered with the people, forging a good deal for himself. The owners talked of winter or summer resorts for people to visit, and were quite willing to give land up for little expense. But this young man saw a totally different picture.
… So, for a few years he has owned a mountain range in this pristine area, and is wishing to have help to open up this mountainous terrain. It was so secluded that he has plans of having his own government there among the high snowy peaks.
… Through the years he had made many friends whom wished to help him with his dreams. Any who would follow might certainly get a piece of that cake as well. But not only that, all knew and saw where their now homeland government was heading. With this realization, the idea in the minds of many was to find a way out while they still could.
… The homeland continent in general was verging on dictatorship, with basic articles as food being very pricy and many taxes on all goods. This group of friends all wished to help with this guy’s plans of having his own continent. Basically, it was to save themselves from the common persons plight, but they were running from bad, into what they thought would be heaven. So they planned to do their best to make this so.
–
… Now that this young man called Jeremy, has gotten the go-ahead from his lawyer, he took some of his friends to this mountain range, but not many stayed. That was a shocker, for most of them had envisioned a new continent. This area they were taken to was an iceberg. Well with that, the young man decided to be more truthful to the people, and with this change he did get some willing to attempt an iceberg continent. Some stayed for a month or two, while others stayed for almost a year. Thus young Jeremy had to replenish his stock of helpers regularly, but it was working out. He knew his country was in the beginning stages, but if he could only get beyond that! He envisioned towns and cities among the mountainous terrain and all in seclusion from the outside world.
… Now, another few years down the road and the beginning plans have finally become set up for inhabitation. Of course, All had to be tried out for this place to become safe, for even Jeremy to live. In the setup has been three years of crop production among the snowy peaks. They had large in-mountain solariums for keeping crops growing in early spring and into late fall. They had burrowed out many caves within these mountains with several for food storage. The temperatures within these deep valleys were often warm, but step outside these bounds and it was sub-minus temperatures, you bet. And with every peak looking white and spherical you could easily get lost, even with a good map in front of you.
… The last wave of builders and bricklayers were let go, except a few. Jeremy felt, Being taught by the professionals who installed the heating and cooling equipment for their weather, these fellows were too valuable to be sent away. Jeremy figured that they will make the emergency repairs of this new city, for the farmers coming in probably have no idea of this. Thus Jeremy chose a few from this group to be permanent occupants and sent the others away. All seemed to be set up good and now comes the more relaxed farmers, for continuous crop growing.
… So now, young owner Jeremy is starting to think of traveling, as he often has in past. This time he is looking for fellows to open the agricultural segment of this valley, to make this steep terrain a prospering central city for the main government.

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Chapter 1 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

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The Beginnings.

… Jeremy left a skeleton of workers to maintain the Government Valley, as he went back to civilization. He went in the back door, for did not wish to arouse the guards that seemed to be everywhere now. The government in homeland is strict and could stop Jeremy in his endeavors, so it was quite hush-hush. On the way, Jeremy asked his friend who was driving the copter, to land in a distant field from a small town he knew was of farming. He left saying. ‘Stay here for an hour and I will return with others. Keep low please!’
–
… As his character portrayed, young Jeremy determinately went plowing through the fields of long grasses in this harvest time of year. He came to a farmhouse and knocked the door. The wife came to door and he asked if hubby was home. Few minutes later an older guy came to door. Answer was, ‘No we have our own farm here thanks.’
… Jeremy struck out a few more times, then he dared to go into town. He was more then an hour and a half but he did get 5 people to come. They came mainly because they were in for it, via government. Misdemeanors were often treated just as strict as criminal deeds in this land, and these people had no way out. So some wished to hurry out of area, so the group traveled with speed back to the copter. As the group got to copter they could not find the driver! Jeremy figured he was too late and the guy ditched them. He asked, ‘Does anyone know how to drive these planes?’ They all looked at each other and shrugged their shoulders.
… Jeremy replied, ‘Well I have flown one maybe twice only. I could take a chance?’ He stood there looking at these half sleepy people, wondering how they were going to produce all the food for his valley back in the mountains. Well, that was the best he could find. He was lucky to find these!
… Suddenly they all perked up as they heard a dog barking. They all looked toward the sound and there was a guy a few yards away, struggling up from the long grasses as the dog was playing tug-of-war at his shirt. Apparently the driver had been out wandering the fields there, but as waiting he fell asleep. Well, the dog gave him a rude awakening for he was on the dog’s territory and napping at that! … Off you go!
… The guy ran back to the copter and uttered quickly, ‘Strife, All jump in and we’ll be off.’ So they hurried into copter wondering if they would all fit. No doubt that thought did not matter much as they started to pile in, for this rather vicious big dog that followed the copter driver, is now growling and snapping at the passenger’s feet. So the copter was overloaded and made a clumsy lift off, but as they went, most watched the dog barking at them, as he stood with eyes focused on this flying contraption. The thought went through dog’s mind of, at least they are not taking me. I hate that vet guy.
… Well, off to the horizon went our group. It was pleasant scenery with sun beginning to wane. The green of the grass and forests about were a breath of fresh air to Jeremy, and I hope to all, for next stop is bountiful snow. But halfway there, as they came from behind one of the mountains, a gust of wind caught the copter which was already shakily flying. With this the copter was sent into a spin. The driver was in alarm and shouted, ‘We are too full, please move weight to the middle of copter… please or we will tumble to the ground.’ With the roar of the blades swishing back and forth, as copter was trying to balance itself, the passengers got the drift of the command and all outside persons sat on the next one’s lap. Well that did the job and they managed to get safely down into the new government valley to be.
… Now, there was no need to be introduced to the stranger next to you! With the scare that most of these passengers had endured, they ended up hugging or having their faces against the next one’s. Most got a close up look of, ‘Oh, what do we do now?’ And a relieved look of, ‘Oh, thank god for your support,’ To most it was instant companionship, and they were all relieved when landed. Even Jeremy, who quietly looked about at the new people in wonderment. (What was that, about?)
… As Jeremy stood looking at these 5 men, the copter driver acknowledged Jeremy and proceeded to take off again. This was the first time Jeremy could analyze these fellows. It was a variety indeed. One was in top-hat and dressed in good duds. Another had on gown type clothing with long wavy hair. Another always seemed to carry a small briefcase wherever he went, which Jeremy wondered, what was inside! He laughed to himself thinking, this guy is smart, he has a snack pack. But Jeremy did not truly know who this fellow was. Maybe greedy! But the one at the other end of these 5, also was wearing a business suit of types, but he was much more down to earth. Then there is the guy with a pipe. Jeremy thought, well so long as the smoke doesn’t come my way, I’m OK with that.
–
… As they stood there on this copter landing getting their bearings, a wind came shuffling through and most grabbed their jackets and covered their bellies. Jeremy uttered, ‘A real slam dunk! This is a sign of the approaching winter people. We must plant seeds in the mountain solariums now. Please follow me.’ He turned to go towards the towering snowy mountains near, then he turned back about, to wonder if anyone was following. It is quiet up here in the snowy peaks, except when the turbines are starting up. Thus, he heard nothing so turned to see only some of the guys making a move.
… The one with briefcase and the one with long wavy hair did not budge and were saying something in a whisper. The one with pipe and the other there with top hat were following the quiet, drably dressed one. I think this one, called Andy, is the most sensible one of the group. Well, Jeremy turned toward the mountains and stated, ‘Nor wind blows cold.’ Come on people, the cold will descend quickly to shroud our new homes here. Be prepared.’ And with that, the fellows glanced into the sky and proceeded to follow with a little more earnest.
(Jeremy is young, just out of teens and most of these newcomers were closing into their elder years, so some of them were hesitant.)
–

Cell Phones.
… As Jeremy led on from the copter landing, he talked further saying. ‘There has been some communication with outside world, and this was all golden, but there have been glitches with the Turbines acting up intermittently. It has been figured by a prior few, that the cell phones which most carry now a days, were interfering with the heating regulators. And on top of that, the phones were not working well at all.’ Jeremy paused and looked back saying, ‘Many have been handing the phones in for repairs and it has been agreed, they need to be shipped via helicopter, for treatment.’
… As Jeremy reached Central Square he turned and asked, ‘Please if you will, hand your phones in now. We will take them all to a repair personnel who will fit them for longer range communication.’ One asked, ‘Will this cost us?’ Jeremy answered, ‘Oh, probably nothing. It is more an adjustment is all.’ As Jeremy paused, he continued explaining to the newcomers, whom were not all listening to him. He knew the phones were a many-fold problem.
… For one, Jeremy did not wish any here to phone and run for the hills. Two, the problems with the heating system, Jeremy did figure was interference from the Cell phones. That was the only option they were looking at, for they were stymied for another answer. So when many past complaints had come in, Jeremy agreed to send all Cell phones away for repairs, but in his mind they may not return. Sleight of hand, but otherwise it may be their demise here!
… Well with that, most handed cells to Jeremy except one with top hat called Berty and one with pipe called George. They were whispering and giggling before they surrendered their pride and joys. Then the group guided by Jeremy, made their way through some light snow, which fell the night before. They saw the land was built with buildings, but no roads or even the remanence of. In fact, there would be no roads to speak of. The copters are the way to most areas.
… There was a community hall for all manner of meetings. There were small home type buildings along mountain slopes, where also was homed tunnels into mountainside. This was where storage and the solariums were placed. At each end of this small valley, between the three mountain peaks of area, there were large wind Turbines for hot or cold air. Of course, they were huge and noisy to, but without them they would probably all freeze this winter. There were about 4 stores of various types which will be stocked only by copters and only staples to boot. Fresh food will be produced via farmers, while Milk and cream will come via their hand full of cows, goats and donkeys. They even had chickens roaming free in this small valley. So there could be a chicken dinner for those special occasions, as seen fit. Also with a good omelet, breakfasts will be a cinch. With sheep providing them with material for clothing and donkey for carting loads of soil or water to other areas, it all sounded pretty complete!
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The Stampede.
… As our Farmers followed Jeremy, they were alarmed at the steepness of the hills they were supposed to be planting in this next spring. That alarm soon passed as Jeremy handed their phones to a maintenance personnel and guided the newcomers into one of the solariums.
… They stopped at the doors to this solarium as Jeremy gave the instructions of how to enter. He explained ‘If two are going in, be it at same time. The longer you leave door open the more our turbines have to work. The Gas for these beasts is a Real Slam Dunk, and if production is not greater than cost, our city in the hills will be not!’ Well Jeremy had everyone’s attention now. He called, ‘Attention people look smart! I will now open door and I want all to go in as quickly as possible. I will time you. … …GO….’
… With that there was literally a stampede. A couple of them fell in and rolled to the side, so not to be stepped on. One was actually Frank the one with that briefcase, who sure enough, did not let go of his treasure. … What is in that case? At the end of that fiasco Jeremy commented ‘Well, that will do.’ With that there were some strange looks, for if they had been any faster it would have been a pile up at the door itself, and door would have been open much longer. They let it pass with some queries, but they are just getting a glimpse of who this Jeremy truly is.
–

Ranger Jack.
… As they quietly looked about with Jeremy yacking on, most were pleased at the temperature and the lush green crops off to one side. (The testing plants.) Jeremy talked of these plants many times as he discussed the procedures of plant care, … while the head of maintenance, came near and stood waiting.
… The group was tiring from Jeremy’s comments, and many had their attention on this new guy, who had quietly come within their presents. Jeremy noted this and introduced this man Jack, as his helper. ‘Please ask Ranger Jack any questions you may have. I will leave you with my trusted employee.’ (At least he knew when to leave.)
… This one called Ranger Jack, was lead hand of the maintenance group and he was to care for all aspects as need be. He was and will be Jeremy’s right hand in this endeavor. Truthfully, Jeremy did not know much outside his box, and when told of other stuff via this lead hand, Jeremy often ignored it. Through this guided tour, he was mimicking what Jack told him, to the best of his ability. Otherwise, he was too concerned with his mountain range and getting other areas started.
… Just outside this solarium, which was in the shadow of this three story building, Jeremy left them to go to Central Square and get warmed up. As some of our group watched, Jeremy was on his way to this building which was in fact Jeremy’s home where Jack also abides. As Jack stepped in to take over for Jeremy, he explained a bit more in areas Jeremy left out.
… As this was happening, just outside the solarium was a donkey and cow also standing in the shadows. This prompted Jack to mention the importance in the keeping of the livestock. Jack was a good guy and wishes to help any persons in this endeavor. He knew Jeremy has too much on his mind, but some people are like that.

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Chapter 2 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

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Taking Charge.
… Jack Ranger looked to his left and asked, ‘Sir do you have a problem. You look concerned.’ Andy in drab clothing was kind of a wimp. He answered ‘Yes … when and what are we going to eat in the next few hours!’ Jack replied ‘Not to worry, we have food in deep freeze and fridge as we speak.’ Andy uttered, ‘Well I’ll be! When did you have time to do this?’ Jack replied, ‘We have been here for over 3 years, sir. Things are set up so now we invite your group to grow our food for the future.’
… Jack glanced through the people there and then explained, ‘This is what we will do now, plant our winter crops within these solariums using the huge lights, of which you will see in a bit.’ George with Pipe was standing near the group and blurted ‘Goody, we will not starve. I thought you meant us harm, especially when Jeremy almost forced us to give up our phones.’
… Ranger turned to the other three very near the entrance, who were standing silently as a group. ‘Yes people, we will not starve. We need your help as a well oiled machine needs all the arms it works with.’ Berty in Top hat, tipped his hat at Ranger, which was a kindly jester, from this otherwise stately and still fellow. As Ranger saw this guy called Papa, he looked to be in much concern. Jack commented to him saying, ‘Yes, do you have another comment.’ Papa uttered ‘What a conundrum! I had to leave my daughter with a stranger in the village square just over there,’ as he pointed out the window beside him. He asked ‘Will she be OK? Its the only Child I have, cause my wife took the other two boys.’
… Ranger Jack looked at this man and questioned, ‘If you are referring to Anna, She has her own son Brucy and I’m sure your daughter is just fine with her.’ ‘Great’ answered Papa, ‘I’m sorry, It is all too confusing. I feel a bit chilled.’ Ranger looked seriously at Papa, then uttered, ‘Winds of fortune! You go out to the Central Square and see Anna. Go into the Meeting Hall and get warmed with a hot drink. The rest are going to be shown about only, for we do not work today.’ Ranger turned to the others and announced, ‘You are fortunate people. Take a day to relax and get used to your new homes and surroundings.’ ‘Oh Fancy that!’ replied Papa. ‘I will go now.’ ‘Yes’ exclaimed Ranger as he turned to George with Pipe.
… George must have spoke of something quietly, for Ranger went on to explain this event. Ranger Jack explained, ‘Yes, he is not used to this climate since living in Hawaii. Regardless of what Jeremy says, it will take some of you a time to get climatically adjusted.’ As Jack spoke this last sentence he became quiet and almost whispered last words. George and Andy just looked at Ranger as he turned and went further into cave.
–

The Status Report.
… Well, they walked further into this huge cavern with a small stream flowing through the central dip. It was warm there, with birds brought in for some good noise, stifling the inner cave silence. This cave was big enough that there was not too much echoing, and many green plants grew helping to mimic the great outdoors, especially with the 4 huge lights therein. These natural lights were positioned in a spot to make use of all their rays.
… Our group walked farther into cavern where Ranger was greeted with a maintenance personnel. ‘Excuse me Sir, here is the latest papers.’ Ranger replied, ‘Till the morrow then.’ This man handed Jack a paper, telling of all that had transpired within the last 12 hours, and then left. A status report as it were. Apparently these caves were very busy. With the maintenance trying to keep up the constant good weather and the new personnel asking many questions of their surroundings, we have a community feeling about us.
… Jack paused and became silent as he checked the paperwork. So the new guy Berty with top hat and George, who was now in the lead with that ever-lit pipe, proceed to examine the plants that were right near. In the distance the sprinklers were running silently, and it seemed a grand sight with mist in the air and odd small birds hovering about.
… Then Berty found a bug and explained, ‘big bugs can be squished with ease, its the little bugs that hide and get the better of you.’ As Berty uttered that he had squished the big bug, so George with pipe blurted ‘ooh… squishy! Not for me.!’ The other two were Frank with that briefcase, who was silently looking to Andy but Andy was looking at Frank to watch his reactions.
Andy is kind of a wimp and does not like to take lead. He leaves that to others.
–

Lying Down on the job?.
… Meanwhile, they came out of that conversation and looked about for Ranger. There he was outside again, in-fact just outside the entrance of the cave? Our small group saw him through the two sets of glass doors and saw he was lying on ground with the livestock all around him!
This brought the 4 out, and as approaching Jack, Ranger Jack sat up, with Frank asking, ‘Great Heavens! Are you OK?’ ‘Well yes! This is paperwork on the livestock. Every 6 months they have to be eyed for any outside afflictions of weather or bugs or any other ailments visible.’ At that point Jack took one of the feet of the cow and pointed out, ‘Like chaffing of hooves. This will be a part of your routine men. You will all learn a great deal and become good herds persons as well as crop producers. This is a life’s work fellows. Shall we go into the cave again. We will continue our introduction.’ The 4 men smiled at Ranger, as George and Berty glanced to each other then proceeded to help Ranger up off the ground. The cow’s feet were wobbling, and Jack was about to get a face full.
… Ranger got up and saw some of his group wandering toward one of the multiplexes of area. He asked, ‘Are you not coming on tour?’ Andy and Frank looked back from 2 yards and Frank replied, ‘No Twinkle-toes! We are too cold. Papa is there with Anna, and we would like a hot drink also. Is that possible?’ Andy asked, ‘Please!’ as Ranger replied, ‘Well all right but I will have to tell Jeremy thus.’ At that point the cow called and was heading straight for the home as well. Ranger thought, Common minds think alike, Lord help us all!
… So, Ranger Jack turned to the only two that were left. Although these two were odd, they were eager to learn. These were Berty in top-hat and George with his forever pipe. Suddenly George looked at Jack who was a bit put out, so George uttered ‘Oh, does my smoke bother you?’ Ranger shrugged his shoulders not wanting George to follow the others. Then George apologized, ‘Oh I am sorry. I will put it out.’ And he did!? This picked up Ranger Jack … so they wandered into the solarium again. Ranger had to keep going for he has to report all to Jeremy. Jeremy will not like this turn of events though. Ranger may get the devil.
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The Treasure Hunter.
… As the three of them wandered to entrance a yard away, they were intercepted by a stranger. ‘Hi, pleased to meet you, can I come for the inspection?’ ‘Sure’ said Ranger, not knowing who this one was. As they hurried into the solarium the new guy explained, ‘I just got here via the copter that was bringing in things for your stores. Do you think I could operate one of those stores or are they all called for?’
Ranger was stumped, for there would be no money involved for this guy, and the ones to be running stores would be volunteering from the group of participants already here. But Ranger did not hesitate, for they need more persons in this group anyway.
… Ranger Jack agreed, ‘Sure if that is what you wish. There is very little money involved though.’ This guy exclaimed ‘Scheherazade’! I am Gillian and am here as an archeologist. There are many hills here that have not been looked into. I have just gotten into this profession and was looking outside the box, of which there are many within this box. I do not like the competition, so took a map and chose my site. When I found others were forging for openings in this mountainous range, I jumped for the copter that was at my local airport.
… ‘I hope that is all right. The copter driver told me, I had to talked to a Jeremy, but I do not know who he is.’ He looked Jack in the face and asked, ‘Is that you Sir?’ Ranger replied, ‘No Sir, I am Jack and to be training the personnel here.’ Ranger Jack smiled and said, ‘Jeremy is about though. You will run into him eventually.’
–
… Ranger turned and looked at Berty and George. He spoke, ‘Winds of fortune, these two here are Berty and George.’ At that point there were handshakes. Then this Gillian asked, ‘So gentleman, why are you dressed so? Your good duds will be surely ruined in no time!’ George with his unlit pipe looked sheepish while Berty put hands in air and laughed. ‘Well fellow, Jeremy just came to my door and said, he had a good job for me. I was not told of the job and felt it was a surprise. Well sir, Heavens to Betsy, it certainly is a surprise, with me in my top-hat. But call me fickle, there is no way I will lose this hat. It cost me more then 40 bucks used. Besides, I like the color of blue gray and it matches my jeans, see?’ Gillian smiled and uttered nothing.
… As that conversation halted, Ranger said, ‘Good-Good! Men lets get in out of the cold.’ Open went the second set of doors, and all rushed in. Ranger took them off to one side in this large cave, where the tools were kept for gardening, and all the chemicals were stocked, to keep the Garden greenery thriving. He and our gang went over the paperwork on the walls within this small room.
… It was the information center, of how and when to plant, water and fertilize specific plants each in turn. They were given pages and told to discuss these with others they lived with. Jack explained, ‘This information will be what keeps you here and alive through the next several winter months in this, our mountainous home.’
… Now since George and Berty actually lived in different homes here, this was lucky for Ranger Jack. Via George and Berty he has informed all people involved with the gardening. Thus Jeremy may not be as upset, to hear that only a few took his tour.
… After almost an hour in this room Jack instructed, ‘Until the morrow, you may go to where you wish. We start very early in morning. Tell the others and set your alarms for 6-am please. All meals are had in the meeting room and later a colleague or myself will be here, to open solarium doors.’ Good Luck!’
–

Settling In .
… So as time went by they settled in. Each person rotated their jobs, so they had a variety of jobs which kept them enthused. They got one day off a week to do as they wished, although there was not much to do. But as time went by they made things to do. They helped each other as they befriended others. All seemed in good stance as Winter came and went.
… Summer was a different story, not that it was very warm out, but they could wander in the hills, so long as they stayed in site of the valley and did not go beyond the snow line. It gave them a chance to be alone with their thoughts. Maybe even meditate on a grassy plateau. In this high wilderness with many bees bugs and butterflies, the flowers were profuse pretty and plentiful.
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Burrow’s Plight .
… Watering of these slopes was sometimes awkward. The donkeys of which were only 5, were burdened with two large buckets of lake water from the small lake in Central Gully. With the rough terrain the poor donkeys toughed through mini avalanches, and lose boulders along the feeble paths, up into the garden terrains of the hills about. The humans saw the probable and possible problems ahead of time, but the donkeys only knew their master wished them to take water up this hill. So, without discernment of the outcome, from their forceful missteps, the Donkeys would boldly go on.
… Watering was also a problem within the upper steeper hills. In these higher hills, donkeys did not go. It was sprinklers that watered these areas but they kept becoming dislodged and ruining crops. Being a large area, it was hard to monitor all fields.
… In the higher hills, the crops often became frozen in later or early growing season. Weather was not constant for the turbines would also freeze with the dew, so not run fast enough to provide warmth to all areas. It was more like real life, a lot of times. Even in the hotter, dryer cycles of their artificial weather, the system got clogged with dust so the weather station would cease up instantly. This allowed the very cold air of the natural climate about, to be present instantly in our crop land.
–
… Along the way, our farmers found that some crops did very well in higher levels. So they changed their ways and planted winter crops there. Being only a few men in those hilly fields, they were very busy at times. But they used any way to gain control. George would smoke the aphids off the plants while Berty would continue to finger squish them. Frank with that briefcase of his, often used it as a fly swatter to chase the pesky bees away, while Andy would be alone while quietly going about weeding. But Papa being in that long moo-moo of his, did not like working in the natural outdoor fields, for a couple of times a bee got up his skirt and stung his legs badly.
… This brings us back to Gillian, who not many people see in summer months. He is an archeologist and found his way into the hills looking for his dream. He is usually seen with his knapsack on his back as he is always on the alert for precious rocks or that odd bone or two. That is the groove this fellow pursues.
… He would greet whom passed him in mornings, then be off till dark had settled, in the evening. But oft times he would not come back. Nobody knows if he has found anything yet, for he is a very quiet person. Thus, most forget of him and are surprised when they do see him, usually with a smile. And of keeping a shop? Well our people have given up on that, for he is never around.
–

The Rollings.
… As summer went on a couple people rolled down the steep slopes to their death. This became a major concern, and with only three farmers left, Jeremy had to go scrounging for more farmers. It was dangerous to enter their homeland now, and when Jeremy got back with 5 more farmers, and a child or two, he talked strongly to them about being alert and watching their step. But even with the strong warnings, others still met their death within this summer.
… On this one time, another rolled and there were a few bales of hay in the way. Well, this one was saved. Thus, the few farmers remaining, busied themselves with training the donkeys to getting stacks of hay placed in certain places to stop rollers from preceding. The farmers were starting to get smart now, since the last roller was a child.
… They had meetings and planned out methods of stopping themselves when rolling. They taught the children that when they started to roll, to put arms and legs outstretched with force and grab anything that was there. This would stop the rolling (but it may also produce a broken limb.) They did not tell the children thus, but all knew it was better than certain death. Most hills about this area had cliffs at the end, and that was sure to be, a dead end.
—

Much Needed Items.
… As the next winter approached some were having a change of heart. They longed for more civilization, even to go to other continents. Jeremy would go off to civilization once in a while and sometimes took a person that was at their ropes end, just to give them a break.
… Along the way and with these excursions, Jeremy was able to get things that were missed, like a radio with news of the outside world. That was very welcomed and within a short time with whatever money they had, each home here acquired a small portable radio. Batteries were expensive but just as expensive as electricity in our valley. Jeremy got what he could when he could. He tried!
… He made sure food was diverse and plentiful, but the crops also did well in the beginning years. It looked as if Jeremy would have his wish of a city within the mountains. Ranger was true blue and stuck it out as he could, but when Jeremy went to another area to start again, things started to change.
… Not via any one person but via repetition of weather damage and machines wearing. Jeremy did not have funds in his mind for repeats. In his mind once something was set up and going, it was to go, period. Well we all know, that is not always the case. I’m not sure what was in Jeremy’s mind. Like was said, ‘He is good for within his box,’ but it is hard for Jeremy to think outside his box. Thus Ranger Jack felt, and then became burdened with the thought, that he was responsible for all these people and their home in the hills.
–

More Problems .
… But later it was costing them far too much and Jeremy would be broke within 5 years. It was the heaters verses the currents. Regularly the weather would change and influence their valley. Jeremy did not envision this. He did not account for the current of air, (the descending of cold and raising of hot.) And while that is a basic temperature Gage, there were long spells that this did not happen, and their air was invisibly trapped within the lower confinements of the valleys atmosphere. It would have been the combination of High pressure verses low pressure and the variations of wind that may drive out the warmth via this changeover. A loophole in the air currents, for other words.
–
… When things went wrong Jeremy basically fled, leaving all to die. Or he thought. The land still belonged to him whether it had alive or dead people on it. Jeremy thought he would just postponed his venture and wait for another few years.
… Copter was run by a friend of Jeremy’s. So once Jeremy stopped the weather system and took off, the copter driver had no reason to return. The others were stranded here literally to die.
–
… As time went on the small maintenance group of the valley did figure the problems out, but by then Jeremy had high tailed it to better lands. He didn’t say a word … just left.
(You see, Jeremy may have worked his way up in the business world, but he had major resentments upon the human co-workers who always seemed to be undermining him in his career). This seemingly no go situation, brought back all Jeremy’s bad memories. Although it was not someone holding Jeremy back, it was more just the situation.
… With this the people did their best to maintain and try to correct the air currents within, but no. With regularly freezing of the crops and themselves they were sinking fast.
… The maintenance whom Jack knew, came out to our group for opinions of more variety. Bradley and Benson were the two leads and they were seen many times wandering with their coworkers, as a small group, trying to find out where Ranger Jack was. They did have many conversations, but Jack was limited in what he could say. Maintenance knew more than Jack, for sure.

–

Chapter 3 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

Thinking Outside the Box.
… Except a very few, most did not wish to leave, for they figured they would die. There was no communication, for the phones were taken to be repaired but never returned. Some heads were going to roll, you bet. There was no such things as phoning home, as ET did.
… Maintenance was able to keep the temperatures stable to a degree and the farmers managed to keep some crops coming, so they did eat well once in a harvest moon. But later it was different. This one guy announced, ‘We must find food.’ He went out on own for nobody wanted to travel in the freezing cold.
–

Survival of the Fittest .
… This forerunner traveled for hours then got to the edge of a distant plateau, and there through the mountain peaks he could see another plateau, and there was a homestead on it! He suddenly started screaming when he saw two people there near the home. Of course, he could not be heard. He was stunned with excitement but also with disappointment. He saw no way down to get to this plateau and he was starving. He was traveling now for two days and finished food early this morning. He had to go back.
… He reluctantly went back and took a bee line, as thinking a lot along the way. He thought, The next group will go to this place very quickly so we can spend our time finding a way to that plateau. He wondered if anyone had a horn. If the people heard us they may look our way. They must have communication with the outside world. He welled up with tears, when the thought came to him of, if they had communication? …
–

Gathering People .
… This traveler called Papa finally made it back, and although starving, went to Central Town Square and rang and rang the bell. Several came out and he talked of what he was going to accomplish to save them all.
… Papa Asked, ‘Who will come with me.’ .. Nobody answered. ‘Come on people.’ Then Jack, the Head of maintenance answered, ‘We need our small group of 4 to stay, for if system breaks down again, we are very busy.’ Another spoke saying, ‘We may starve in the hills or even be frozen to death.’ Papa answered, ‘Yes but if we do not act now, we will all starve here!’ He stood there disheartened in people, for they would rather stay and starve.
… Papa turned away in disbelief and his young daughter replied, ‘I will come.’ Papa answered, ‘No Marsha dear.’ She explained, ‘Yes for I could hide from the stormy winds and keep warmer than you. Then when we get there I could find a way through. I know I can Papa!’ He looked back at the several people there and uttered, ‘My daughter is braver than any of you!’ He turned to daughter Marsha and uttered, ‘What a conundrum! … But if we are in trouble we will turn back.’
–
… On their trip there, Marsha stayed with the sleigh and bundled up warm to preserve her heat. They took much food so would not run out, and they traveled fast when daughter was on sleigh. So when they got to the plateau the daughter was in good shape.
… They stashed the sleigh and walked through some narrow passages. They slipped in the snow and ice several times, but it was not high in that they would tumble over an edge. It was near a mountain base. It was wall to wall tall mountain peaks which protected them even from the cats and other animals that may have been there. Then they came to a ridge that the dad could not get through.
… Marsha said, ‘I will go.’ Papa stopped her but did not say a word. His heart was wrenched much. This may be the last time he would see her. … Should he let her go? … He made all kinds of funny faces as daughter Marsha was waiting for him to let go of her arm. Then as he let go he turned away. He prayed, ‘Bless you. May god’s angels protect you!’
… He looked into the blue sky with three mountain peaks before him, and he started to pray in a different tongue. (His homeland language.) Daughter Marsha did not know much of that but she knew he was very upset. She promised, ‘I will be back Papa. Wait for me!’ Then daughter took off while she could.
–

The Adventures of Marsha .
… Well she knew the general direction (told by dad) of the location the homestead was seen, but as she went into this tunnel passing many peaks, she soon saw light. This light was not coming from the right direction? Plateau was to be on Marsha’s left, but on her right was a sunny slope going down a gentle incline. There were many deciduous trees there with very white bark. She got out her marker and made notes on this trunk of where the crevice was and to rescue her Papa there.
… After a minute and getting out her bag with an apple in, Marsha started wandering while chewing this half frozen apple. As she went down a few more feet there was some grass showing. The temperature was getting warmer a bit. (At least she thought), for the cold air was not biting her lungs now.
… Suddenly there was a shadow moving swiftly over ground. Marsha looked up quickly to see a large black bird flying by, as it swooped towards her. She ducked near this tree and wondered where they would have a nest at this time of year. There is snow everywhere except on this tall bunch of green grass 3 yards away. Marsha thought, could they be nesting there? I hope! There will be eggs and I can start a fire, and get warmer too.
… She gingerly went to the green grass to look within and see if there may be, hopefully, a nest of eggs. But No! She stayed crouched down wondering what to do next. The cold was nipping at her face as she thought of her apple. She got apple out of pocket which by now was frozen but she worked at it for a bit. Then the thought went through her mind, I have to save my Papa. So Marsha got up and glanced about wondering if the black bird was still around. She noticed the trees again and as she approached the tall grass there, she saw a cliff in front of her, which she had thought was more snowy terrain. The trees that seemed tall to her as she stood looking at this area, were trees that had grown up the hillside.
… As Marsha went closer she could feel the warm air coming up from the valley before her. She got right to the edge and wanted to see how far down valley went, because it was as if she was on a high mountain cliff. (Which in reality she was). She stood there puzzling at the tree this big bird came from to swooped about. She looked closer and decided to climb down a bit, to see how far she could go into this warmer sunny terrain.
… The branches on the tree were thick which meant it was a huge tree. As Marsha climbed down one branch at a time, the big dark bird came by again. And with it calling, Marsha recognized it as a Raven. So she went down a few more branches and there was a nest built on the cliff. The Ravens did not seem to be about now, so she got down to straddle the branch which held her no problem, then swung her legs over to put feet on the cliff. Marsha got her footing and there were 4 large white eggs. ‘Wow’ she said aloud. ‘These are bigger then chickens!’
… She took them all 4 and put in her bag with the other apple and cheese sandwich she has yet to eat. Marsha wished at that point to pass them to her dad, but this made her hurry further down this tree. She spent another 10 minutes climbing gingerly down this huge tree. Then at bottom she saw green grass with a bit of snow here and there.
… As Marsha walked away from the mountain side, it was like she was leaving the mountain range behind her. There were before her, grassy fields and even a lake in the evergreen trees near. As she went closer she saw insects flying and the leaves on the bushes were coming out. Then Marsha heard something. ‘Was that a wolf? Oh No.’ She stopped and ducked waiting for another sound. Well when a sound came, there from out of the brush skulked an Irish pointer. They are friendly dogs, only interested in the foul the master may have downed with a gun. As Marsha watched the dog searching in and out of the bush there, a few minutes later here comes a little girl about Marsha’s age? She took one look at Marsha and turned calling her dad.
… Of course Marsha hollered, ‘Wait, please wait!’ Dad came out of bush in a strong stance. Marsha hesitated and this man called ‘Are you lost young lady?’ ‘Yes, my Papa is stuck in the mountains there, as she pointed into the air. I need help to save all the people there.’ The man replied ‘Oh, where in the mountains!’ ‘I’m not sure,’ said Marsha. ‘I would have to retrace my steps.’ The man spoke ‘I have a helicopter. We will take a ride.’ He turned toward home and said to Marsha, ‘Come with us.’ So off they went quite fast while the dog stood in the open, wondering, is that the end of our game?
… Marsha followed them including the dog who decided the game was indeed over. As they neared the dwelling dad sent his young daughter in to tell mom they have company. Dad turned to Marsha and asked, ‘Are they dying or are they alive to walk to copter, if I have to park it further away?’ ‘Oh, they were OK, but out of food. My dad may be very cold now. It was about 2 hours ago I left him to wait for me.’ Woo… uttered the man. I will pack the thermal blankets then.
… As Marsha followed this man to his home, he asked, ‘How many are there?’ Marsha replied, ‘In camp about 15 but my dad is alone. The others would not help us, so I went with him.’ The hunter uttered nothing and went on ushering Marsha in as well.
… Marsha gave the man the 4 Raven eggs as he called, ‘Marilyn, could you please make much food. 25 sandwiches will do. We have people stranded in mountains. Thanks.’
So as daughter Suzy and wife Marilyn made sandwiches, Dad and Marsha talked more of situation.
–
… Marsha tells the history as the man packs blankets and Battery operated heaters to make people comfortable for a short time, till they can be lifted out of area. He has phoned the company he works for in Search and Rescue.
… Marsha hit the jack pot and all she could do was watch as this Ranger goes into top gear, for a mountain rescue.
–
… With not much room in this small helicopter the Ranger had to leave wife and daughter at home. Marsha got a royal ride you can bet, for she has never been in a copter except in the back with no windows to see out of. This time she had the front seat. She was asked by Ranger Pete to watch for her Papa. Peter knew this was going to be hard, for if the man is sleeping, it may have snowed upon him. … And it was true. They could not find him.
… Peter had to land in an area that Marsha thought, was where Papa was. So with a rough ride they did get to ground. But of course, it looked very different to Marsha than before. Marsha had nothing to go by. They wandered a few minutes then Marsha saw a railing. She called Peter saying, ‘There is something here!’
… Peter came and viewed what Marsha saw and it was not of nature. Peter struggled down a few feet to a mesh of brush to take a look at this snow covered bar at base of bushes. He pulled it up with his heavy gloved hand and sure enough, it was the sleigh that Papa had thrown to one side as he and daughter had come into area, on their search for that secluded plateau. That was quite a relief for both Peter and Marsha, for now they were right near where Papa was. Marsha looked at Peter as Peter asked, ‘Where to now?’ Marsha not saying a word, followed what her nose remembered. Peter followed her silently. She was still lost and wandered a bit but then her head came up and she uttered ‘This way, as they reached a cliff wall. She must have remembered the rock formation, at the entrance through this crevice they took this morning.
–
… Peter did not say a word but left Marsha to figure. It was 10 minutes and after squeezing through 4 cliff edges Marsha uttered, ‘There, I think that be he.’ They both ran to a heap of snow several yards away. Peter put hands on heap and asked, ‘Sir, are you all right!’ The heap stirred and Marsha shouted, ‘Papa-Papa, Wake up Papa!’ As Peter dug with hands to find the man’s head and arms, he was able to pull the heap free of snow. Papa was barely conscious, cause too cold. Peter opened a packed blanket and lay it flat on the snowy ground. Then he rolled Papa onto blanket and wrapped him up like a present leaving a small opening for him to breathe by.
He opened another packed blanket and doubled it to make a blanket sleigh. He rolled papa onto this one and pulled a built-in handle, dragging Papa behind him. Marsha just followed in wonderment.
… Peter had difficulty getting Papa through the crevices but managed, for Papa seemed to be made of rubber. He must have been asleep, But Marsha could not figure that one out. Wouldn’t he have woken by the rough edges of the rocks that were hitting him? She just followed silently.
–
… As they got to where copter was, Peter opened door and behind the two front seats there was a platform that would fit a person. Peter with difficulty, lifted Papa up onto the platform, blankets and all, and pushed him in. Marsha and Peter got into copter’s front seats and Peter put his ungloved hand over Papa’s face. He then pulled a contraption that was hanging at side of copter above the seat, and Marsha recognized it as an airplane mask. He put it on Papa’s face and told Marsha to buckle up. Then they took off.
–

The Ride of Marsha’s Life.
… Peter looked at Marsha when they were in the air. He said smiling, ‘Your Papa will be all right, he is just sleeping cause too cold. His temperature is low, so he is hibernating, is all.’ Well Marsha knew what that meant, so she smiled and looked about more.
… Peter asked, ‘So where are the other people you talk of.’ ‘I’m not sure?’ replied Marsha. There are three mountain peaks together and on other side there is flat land with a small lake but that is where I found you only higher up.’ Peter answered, ‘Oh a plateau. That will be Farthing’s Plateau. So it is near here?’ ‘Yes.’ replied Marsha, ‘Papa and I only travel around 8 hours in the snow to get to where Papa was.’ ‘OK so three mountain peaks?’ ‘Yes, we live in the shadow of them.’ Peter asked, ‘Like those over there?’ Marsha looked in the direction Peter was pointing and answered ‘Yes, that looks like them!’ Peter went closer and Marsha said, ‘We live between them.’ ‘OK’ acknowledged Peter and he flew over them.
… Sure enough, there was the camp. Well Marsha screeched, ‘There they are! Oh, thank you so much. Oh this is great. Thanks.’ Peter said, ‘sh… calm down, please hang on. This will be tricky to land in.’ Marsha replied ‘No, there is a helicopter who used to come often. He had no problem.’ ‘Oh thanks.’ uttered Peter, ‘I’ll try.’
They did make it down. And all the inhabitants came running out from where they were. As trying to land Peter had to hover and open his window. He took this horn and called, ‘I have to land, please move!’ So they did move slowly as the helicopter came and almost landed on a few.
–
Papa to Safety.
… Well Peter got out and helped Marsha out. The people crowded around for did not know what this person was doing here. Peter said, ‘Please leave space, we have a sick man here.’ He opened back copter and pulled Papa out then told the one beside him to take Papa’s feet and head to a building where he may recover. “He is frozen and needs help!”

–
Gun Play.
… As they were taking Papa, Marsha followed. But suddenly out came Jeremy with a shotgun. ‘What are you doing here young man?’ Peter replied, ‘Sir I am helping these people whom came to me in troubles. This man was almost frozen to death. This is where they live?’ ‘Well Yes,’ Jeremy looked at Marsha and asked ‘Why was he out in snow? He was to stay here and work.’
… Marsha was upset. She did not like to see a man with a gun pointing in their direction. She replied angrily, ‘We had no food and he and I went for help. We found this fellow Peter and he saved my Papa’s life.’ ‘Nor Wind Blows Cold!’ uttered Jeremy roughly. ‘Just get out of my sight. You will have to go home as soon as your “Papa” can walk.’
… Peter kept walking with the other man George holding on to Papa’s feet. When they were out of Jeremy’s hearing range, George said, ‘That is the one who started this endeavor and got us to work. He has taken our phones so we cannot contact outside world. He left us to die for Turbines were not working, but we fixed them. Then he just came back with gun and is demanding us to feed him. He wants us to provide food for the other valley he has started, when we cannot provide for ourselves. What do we do?’
… Peter replied, ‘First lets get this guy inside and get a hot drink in him. Do you have a heating pad or something to keep him warm.’ ‘Yes. One is on his bed.’ answered George. ‘Good. Then we will talk further.’
–

Peter Calls a Meeting.
… Peter told Marsha to stay with her Papa till he awakes. Peter then called a meeting and they all sat down for a discussion in the hall. Peter told ‘I believe this man was on the news the other day. You listen to radio? … That one works?’ ‘Yes’ answered Ranger Jack. Berty announced, ‘Ranger Jack here has been lead hand and is in charge when Jeremy is not here.’ Peter looked at Jack and asked, ‘Is he dangerous?’ Jack replied ‘I’m not sure. He seems to be in a stew which is not normal for him.’ Peter asked, ‘Did you say he had another place he was starting?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Well, I would say he is not having a good time there. If a couple of you went with him and offered help, you may get to the problem.’
… Jack agreed ‘That is a good idea. If he confides in me then he will be on my side again. OK, I will try that Sir and thanks.’ Peter looked about and said, ‘I have a flare and will leave it with the right person. If ever you are in trouble again, set it off and my surveillance system will pick it up. OK? But in a pickle, that is about as much as I can do. I work for the Parks board, and this is why I saved that child’s father. Take care of him for he was close to death. Keep him warm for the next couple of days. He should stay in bed. I must go for am always on the job. I brought several boxes which were put indoors by others. Share the food and keep warm.’
‘Oh thanks’ replied Ranger Jack. ‘I am a Ranger of this area.’ Peter answered, ‘Oh I work for parks also but not sure of you?’ ‘We have met?’ Ranger Jack questioned ‘No I do not think so?’ ‘Peter said ‘OK I will be off. Ranger, come with me please.’ So Ranger Jack went out and received the flare secretly, via Peter. ‘I can get here in 5 minutes. Take care.’ Then Peter jumped into copter and lifted off with Jack waving bye.

–
Jeremy’s Plight.
… With the copter taking off Jeremy reappeared. He shouted at Jack saying, ‘What did he want?’ ‘Oh, he is a Ranger also and found our man Papa frozen in the snow.’ Jeremy replied, ‘Well it serves him right. Why did he go there anyway?’ Jack answered ‘We ran out of food. You know the crops did not do well, inside or out this year.’ ‘Yes,’ said Jeremy, ‘But you got the Turbines working again. How did you do that?’ ‘Well, I’m not sure, but others did it. Some of them are smart.’
… Ranger Jack then stuck out his neck and asked, ‘So what seems to be the problem?’ Jeremy uttered, ‘And what does that mean?’ Jack re-asked, ‘Why are you so grumpy?’ Jeremy looked down. Then he uttered, ‘Everywhere I go, nobody likes me. I am always running from something.’ ‘Well, what did you do?’ asked Jack. In a quiet voice Jeremy explained, “Oh I’m a businessman and sometimes you have to step on people to get somewhere. I guess I stepped on some, and they are retaliating now.’ What do I do Jack?’ Jack looked at him and he was about to break into tears. Jack said, ‘Come in out of the cold, I cannot think in this temperature.’ ‘Yes’ agreed Jeremy, with a relief sound in his voice. Jeremy wandered with Jack, in a very solemn way. He has obviously had his spirit broken. As they walked slowly to their building all eyes were upon them that windows could hold. All knew Jeremy was in a bad way almost to suicide, to himself or anyone around. Now they were observing a broken soul.
–
… Well, as they got in Jeremy told all. He apologized, I’ am sorry for my rudeness but I thought that guy came to take me away. I cannot trust anyone anymore.’ ‘Why!’ asked Jack. Jeremy said, ‘I had been scouting for persons to help with starting my other valley in this mountain range. But the people knew me and gave me trouble. I’m not sure why?’
(Jack knew some of the people here saw he was on TV as a wanted criminal. He has not always been straight and ended up killing a few people recently. Basically, that is why he fled from here. He felt the law knew where he was, and he got antsy. This happened to be his demise though. For once he entered civilization again, the news had spread far and wide. He was a sitting duck. For even the general public would get a reward for his capture. Dangle money in front of most and they will jump (With), the gun for sure.)
… The last time he was in civilization he had to shoot his way out, again, and here he is hiding from humanity. He was literally at the end of his rope, after taking people back and forth to find their rope again. That’s gratitude for you. No wonder he was out for blood. But we make our beds and have to lie in them, I’m sorry to say. Maybe if he gets a good lawyer, he will get a lighter sentencing. But with killing several people, that is unlikely. Jack was not about to hand him in, On the other hand, Jack would not hesitate if Jeremy started killing the people here. Jack warned Jeremy right then, he had to be on his best behavior.
… Jack told, ‘Being a Ranger as I am, I should hand you in right now, but being friends as we have been, I will pass this by, as though you said nothing. But one step out and you are gone Sir! Do you understand?’ ‘Yes Sir!’ ‘Sorry!’
… So as time went by things settled down. Papa recovered and was mobile within a few weeks, but Jeremy was giving him a bad time when found him alone. Papa found another opportunity to speak with Jack thus Jack confronted Jeremy and that seemed to settle also.

–

Chapter 4 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

Banquets of Tournament Season.
… It may have been the middle of winter, but the Turbines were working, and weather was slightly freezing, but nothing that would stop our groups from playing basketball or soccer tournaments outdoors in the snow. Even the maintenance persons, got into this routine yearly now.
… After a good tournament, which often lasted through the day, they had to eat as well. Later they would gather in the meeting room in a jolly way, for at these times much fun was had in the Central Square of their little city. Much food, that had been brought from the wintering cave deep-freeze, was stored that morning in the meeting room fridges. Few hours before the games, it was piled on the counter and prepared. But after the games the people were usually so excited or too exhausted, to enjoy these eats right away, so they had goodies about as the people entertained themselves with gleeful conversations. These game meals were an event. There was more food laid out at these times than any other, except maybe Christmas.
–
… It was within one of these tournaments that Jack made a pact with Jeremy that they would produce much food in summer months and Jeremy could take half to his new valley, But only till they were able to grow crops there. This tended to settle Jeremy down as well and life was harmonious for a bit. If you have any discrepancies the best time to deal with them is through Tournament Season. Food seems to solve a lot of issues, if plentiful.
… Jeremy’s problem in his other valley was told to be a case of getting the heating and cooling gauges set right for the natural temperature of area. With food available for a few weeks, the men could eat while spending most of their time correcting situations.
… It turned out OK and this settled our people for another summer within these cool hills. But later in this year, Jeremy was taking more than half, and with winter approaching, again Jack was getting nervous. Slowly there were coming complaints of hunger at our original camp, but Jeremy would not let up. Jack was getting hot under collar but what could he do. Either way, someone was going to starve. It was not a nice place to be in, for sure.
… Without Jeremy, (who now spent most of time in that New valley of his,) Jack could have a meeting with his trusted people of Berty George Frank and Andy. Papa was about but often, not front and center. (I feel with him trying to save them all that time, Papa got disheartened with people in general.)
–

Meeting The People.
… The Town Meeting Hall was cool, but Anna when hearing of meeting, offered earlier in the day to make hot drinks for the group. She met Jack at the entrance with its tall pillars. Jack was thankful for it was getting to be winter again. Although Anna did not have a meal to give, they did scrounge some goodies from the fridge at the Meeting Hall. Anna uttered ‘How Tantalizing! This must have been left overs from our last games. Well no matter, I will heat them up in microwave and nobody would know the difference. It will kill all germs Sir.’
… Jack smiled and asked, where are the children you often watch? Anna smiled and looked sly saying. ‘I got Rose to watch the children this day. She did not mind, but my Brucy is in the other room here.’ As she peered into room She explained, ‘He is normally out with others playing sports, but it is very chilly today. Not to worry Sir, he will be quiet for he has his paint set.’ ‘Good!’ replied Jack, ‘You are good for water?’ Anna looked into corner and replied ‘Yes, someone brought these three large buckets in.’ ‘Good! Oh Wind of Fortune, that is ample’ agreed Jack, ‘I will go out front to welcome others.’ And off Jack went out into the nice crisp cool air.
–
… As Jack came out under the pillars, the sun was rising within their valley. It takes a few hours for sun to get up over the mountainous horizon, but as it does, its like a sun rise with rays of sun filtering down into the valley. It was quite a sight. Jack was thrilled for a moment, feeling this place was not too bad.
… Then as that was being taken in, a large bird swooped down and was gliding in circles above Jack. This puzzled Jack but he took it as a good thing. Something was watching them from above. Then Jack looked earthward and here comes Andy in his meek mild manner. ‘Howdy there, how are you today.’ Andy answered ‘I’m fine. Is this meeting going to get us more food for winter. As Binding Shackles! You know, We will not be able to have our game meals at the rate we are going!’ ‘Yes’ said Jack, ‘I’m aware of that. We will talk of various things. I’m sort of free, for Jeremy is not here hanging over me now. All will be fine.’ ‘Oh!’ uttered Jack, as he looked up and saw George coming. Well before George got to Jack he put out his pipe. (George is a considerate fellow all around. Or he certainly seems to be with regards to Jack. Maybe Jack is an idol to George?)
… George came right near Jack and told quietly, ‘I met the mail person that comes every month, He told me he delivers Jeremy’s mail in that other valley. Thing is Sir, he saw their Fields of produce, that they are harvesting before the heavy frost. But Good Grief Sir, He said they are plentiful, even better than ours!’ Jack uttered, ‘Oh Lord! Did you hear that, Andy.’ (Andy had stepped back to let them talk. He does not like to disturb anyone.) As Jack said this, Andy’s eyes opened wide, and he came forward. Andy replied with, ‘Well I’ll Be! So what is he doing taking all our food? We have very little out in those fields and only some in the solariums.’ ‘Yes’ said Jack as his head went down. ‘I will have to look into this new valley.’ Jack looked at the two fellows and George announced ‘I will come help, Jeremy cannot order us around anymore. Good Grief! If he has more food than we, we should be paying him a visit, Sir!’ Jack straightened up and replied, ‘Well we cannot jump to conclusions neither. Jack looked up and opened his eyes wide as he uttered ‘And look who is jumping behind you!’ They turned and here runs Frank with that briefcase flying, and Berty who is holding his hat as his scarf is waving in the breezes. Frank asked, ‘Sorry Twinkle-toes, are we late?’ (puff puff) ‘No-No’ uttered Jack, you are just in time.’
–

Conversation of Meeting.
… As they all huddled, with the cool breeze blowing a bit stronger, some snow flurries came as Jack welcomed and thanked all for meeting. He spoke saying, ‘This is a crucial time, and we will carry out what we proclaim within this meeting. I have a plan myself, but I must pass it by all of you. We are a team so thus, let us be a team!’ ‘Yes’, uttered Berty, ‘I agree. Can we go in now, it is chilly out here.’ ‘Yes-yes’, answered Jack ‘come in.’ Jack led the way up toward the pillars as a ray of light shown on the door. It was another sign in Jacks mind. What was happening?
… Jack opened the hall doors and the smell was heavenly from within. They gladly went into a cool room that was getting warmer as the only microwave in town was going. Anna had poured drinks of water and was heating water for coffee or tea as they wished. But before that Jack got all seated and said, ‘What we say within this room does not leave this room. It is best we keep our plans to ourselves. The ladies and children do not need to be subjected to our dilemmas. I’m sure the ladies know we are in a state, but the children need their free time to grow up in, to become well rounded adults.’ All agreed with a ‘Yes Sir’ and put their hands up to Jacks outstretched arm.
… Jack thanked them again and all sat quietly thinking of what could be said next. That is when Anna came with hot water and tea or coffee crystals. As she was serving, Jack announced, ‘I will, and have planned to pay a visit to this new valley of Jeremy’s, just to see it for myself. Maybe they are far better off than we. Maybe he is pulling the wool over our eyes. I’m not sure of this Jeremy, after hearing of what his past has been.’
… As struggling to get up quickly, for briefcase got stuck on chair, Frank shouted, ‘Great Heavens! … I know the laws and we have been dictated over too much to even be a friend to that guy! He has given us nothing but the opportunity to help him with this land and valley. And even then, he leaves us on our own and still takes from us! He is a taker Sir. If we wish anything we must not be givers anymore!’ ‘Definitely’ agreed Berty. We have been following that Pied-Piper long enough!’ Then Andy Chimed in with, ‘Well if we had nothing for him to take, he would go empty handed. You know Sir!… we do not have to tell him what we have here. Now that he is there, we need to be more secretive Sir!’ ‘Yes Good’ agreed Jack, ‘this could be done also.’ George uttered, ‘Good Grief! That is an idea, but where would we stash this food and other things where Jeremy would not know of?’
… Jack admitted, ‘I have never been in the 3rd and 4th solarium. I’m not sure even if there are others. They are not needed!’ ‘Hum…’ uttered George, ‘Maybe they are heated as our food cave is, and we would be far better off living in them.’
Jack raised his eyebrows, for he had not thought that way before. After a minute Jack said ‘We probably should have got in touch with the mechanics, if they are still here. They would know, but those people tend to stay away from us now. I wonder why?’
… Ranger Jack went on with, ‘They are a funny bunch to be sure. I was lead hand but they do not wish to see me now. Lord help us! Maybe Jeremy took them to his new valley.’ ‘Good Grief! That could very well be.’ agreed George. ‘Jeremy does not wish us to live, or that is how he is behaving.’ Jack replied ‘Well, we will not falsely accuse till we know the truth people.’
… Jack paused again for a bit looking at the people around this rather large table, then he said, ‘Good-good! Shall we go find the solariums now?’ Andy replied, ‘Yes but we … or I, wish to eat now. I had very little this day.’ Anna spoke up with, ‘Yes Dude this is true! for I was hoping to have a bit myself, Sir!’ ‘Wind of fortune!’ uttered Jack, ‘We will stay and eat what we can, then go exploring.’ So they merrily went on eating the squares and a bit of soup, that was piping hot. They discussed food at this time, and talked of the variety they had back home. As they got nourished Jack spoke, ‘We will not talk of this to any. Come, let’s go now, for these solariums may be far away. We will go just to see, then come back. Jack turned to Anna saying, ‘Anna, you stay here with your son please, and tidy up a bit. We will go straight to our homes from the exploration. This will keep suspicion down.’
… Jack smiled at Anna and she smiled back. ‘Yes Sir’ answered Anna. She was all good for she and her son got to eat at this meeting. Most here in these mountains would be very well, if they could eat a good snack. Dinner is coming though, so all will have a bit before bed.

–

Chapter 5 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

Venturing to Solariums.

Meeting with Jeremy’s Workers .
… So as our group went on, they all knew where the first solarium was. But before they left there, the maintenance people came out. Now, there are only two (For Jeremy took others to help him elsewhere.) They usually stayed in the first solarium for that is where the engines and turbines are regulated. But they came to meet our group so to talk with Jack, for heard rumors of people moving away from area. These two helpers of Jeremy’s called Bailey and Benson, asked of these rumors and Jack said ‘Lord No! we are just scouting. Don’t worry.’
… Jack paused a minute then asked, ‘Do you know if there are more solariums down this way?’ Bailey questioned, ‘I believe so. It was the builders that built them but we have had no need to visit them. But I believe Jeremy talked of other buildings in area. Why?’ Jack replied, ‘We wanted to know what all is in this area. Are they heated?’ Bailey answered, ‘I’m not sure, I know they are all hooked up to the same box for electricity, so maybe?’ ‘Thank the Lord’ uttered Jack, ‘so maybe we are not on a wild goose chase. Thanks.’
… Jack was turning away to go on and he turned back. He added ‘Oh, and thanks for leveling out our weather system, its working pretty good now hey.’ ‘Yes, it is Putting along superfine.’ replied Benson. They smiled and the two maintenance fellows of Jeremy’s, wandered back into their home in the first Solarium. As they were leaving Jack said, ‘Please come visit any time. Join us in the Winter Games and any meetings you wish. Alright?’ The two smiled as they entered the familiar double sets of Glass doors.
–
… So Jack was off again with Berty Frank Andy and George. Jack knew the second solarium was just behind the first but he was unsure of the rest. They went and found the second quickly and it has much food as well, with stock of various types. Some of this stock, none knew they had, like hoses. But they hadn’t got the water system built-in yet. They still rely on the donkeys and the small lake in the Central Gully near.
… When starting to venture to the third solarium, it was nowhere in sight? There was a small forest on this lower terrain, and it was a welcome sight. Frank said ‘I like the trees better. We should live here when we find this so called third Solarium. That is, if it is heated.’
(Where Jeremy decided to live on the Iceberg Plateau, it has very few trees. I guess it is near the timber line.)
… As they were venturing lower, there were even more trees in sight. Berty agreed ‘This is heavenly as we find more trees, but where is this third solarium?’ Well, as this was being said, they were going around a group of trees and there off in a corner was another mountain slope, but not as steep. And lo-and-behold, Berty shrieked, ‘Heavens to Betsy, There it is!’
… Sure enough off to one side was an entrance into the mountain. Before them was only green grass covered slightly in places with snow, so they scurried towards this welcoming sight, if not just to get out of the cold wind into a slightly warmer place. With Ranger having Keys, they stepped in and Andy said, ‘Yes, it is heated. How come these places are being heated for no reason? This place is empty!’ Jack commented, ‘I have no idea, this is Jeremy for you. He does not think outside his box. He only sees what is in front of him and his mind.’
… They stood at the entrance of this big room, cause were tired now. Berty remembered something, then said, ‘We just passed a log, come Frank help me.’ This time Frank actually left briefcase inside the door. Wow!
… They disappeared for a moment as Jack talked to Andy. ‘If I were to leave here, would you be one to follow? ‘ Andy did not know. Being a follower, he felt he would stay with what he was familiar with. They were silent for a bit and then with a thump on the door, Andy ran to let the others in with the log. It was damp but all sat and thought, How Nice! After a minute Jack uttered, ‘Winds of fortune, we should go on, for it is getting dusky. I would like to be back before dark.’ ‘Yes’ agreed Berty, ‘Me too!’
–

Re-visitation with Good News.
… As the group wandered toward where they thought the forth solarium should be, they saw someone in the distance. Not knowing who it was they were on guard, for had not been in this area before. But as this person came closer they realized it was Gillian the Archeologist. Jack greeted ‘Hi, how are you doing?’ ‘Oh pleased to meet you. I am not too bad, but it’s time to come back from that beautiful valley, to speak with real people again. I get very lonesome just for the human voice. I don’t get to meet the people there for I stay in the hills. It’s been almost two months but also it is getting cold out again.’
… George asked, ‘Another plateau? Gillian said, ‘Well it is more like another valley. It is a lot bigger than your place in the Iceberg.’ ‘Really’ replied Ranger Jack. ‘I should go exploring more.’ (He felt a bit embarrassed for he was one who used to scour the countryside a lot, but now he is buried in a friend’s endeavor that is not turning out, and this isn’t Jacks ideal situation. But for now he is trapped.)
… Jack went on saying, ‘Well we found the second and third solariums and some have storage in them, but this fourth one that is to be somewhere about this side of mountain is…’ Gillian interrupted saying, ‘Scheherazad! I know where it is, come I’ll lead.’ Jack smiled for he was getting tired. It was taking much longer than all thought. They had to find this last solarium, and it was already getting dusky out. They hoped to be back before dark but that is doubtful now.
… Jack continued conversation with, ‘Have you been down into the beautiful Valley as you say it is?’ Gillian answered ‘No, there are often many rules in an area, and I prefer to keep out of human confrontations. I just relax and keep to myself when on an expedition.’ Jack agreed with the relaxing then asked, ‘So have you found anything that is worthy of you staying here?’ Gillian replied, ‘ I have found many things, some of which may help you.’ ‘Good’ replied Jack, in anticipation.
(I feel Jack is about to give up and go to his homeland. This last find of empty heated rooms without reason, has soured Jeremy for him.)
… Gillian went on with ‘Yes, like I say, I found a huge valley about 3 miles that way.’ as he pointed off into the hilly northern horizon. ‘I could take you there if you wish, but it would be tomorrow sir.’ ‘Of Course’ uttered Jack. ‘And I may take you up on that. Is it a place where a helicopter could land with ease?’ ‘Oh yes, it is far bigger than what you are living in now Sir!’ Jack smiled and was silent.
… As they went around another group of trees and down another hill, Jack said, ‘Well if we could meet a guy who flew helicopters, we would have a way to get anywhere we wished! We would not have to go back to the dictatorial homeland.’ Gillian after a minute replied, ‘Well I know how to fly those contraptions and have several times.’ ‘Wind of Fortune!’ uttered Jack, as shaking Gillian’s hands, ‘Good to meet you Sir!’ They all had a good laugh
… As they settled down the comment of cost came up. ‘Bewitched!’ uttered Gillian, ‘I know they cost a fortune. But any airport who has helicopters will rent them out. You have to have credentials and a good record of flight.’ Jack asked, ‘How much would that be, about?’ 150 the last time I remember.’ Ranger said, ‘How fortunate! That is not a lot. We could manage that between us if we needed cargo or a ride.’
–

The Forth Solarium?.
… As going down a fair slope all had their heads down while talking. Just then Berty lifted his head to see where the leads were heading and announced, ‘Our Ship has come in! There is a building there!’ Then Berty had a different tone and replied, ‘It doesn’t look like a solarium to me?’
… This building was further downhill from where they were, and it looked more like a conservatory for the stars, for it had one large sky light in roof. But this did not stymied their progress for they still marched downward toward this strange building.
… When they got there it was built more like a house. This was impressive to Jack, But he hesitated, for maybe it belonged to another? Jack agreed, ‘This is not of the standard that Jeremy built the other three by?’
… Well, that did not stop Ranger Jack from going and trying the door. And in-fact, it had to be Jeremy’s, for Ranger’s keys fit the lock. Jack wondered what Jeremy was thinking. It would have been the builders and bricklayers that built it and there was now, no way to question them. But here was a light airy building, with 4 different rooms and it was heated! Gillian asked, ‘Well people, we could stay here the night?’ Boy was that a thought! Berty asked, ‘What would we sleep on?’ Jack agreed ‘Yes, the flooring is of concrete, not good for an older fellow like me.’
–
… Jack looked at a bunch of very tired farmers. He knew they could not make the long trip Back to camp. He then noted that most had knapsacks on their backs, so he suggested, ‘Well you could use your knapsacks for a pillow and anything inside as comfort. I will look about and see if the heat can be turned up a bit for the night. This will keep us warmer without blankets. Does anyone disagree?’ Well, Not one said a word. So it was agreed they would stay the night.
… In five minutes Jack came into the front room again, where everyone was seated on floor. He said as smiling. ‘I found the thermostat in the kitchen of sorts, (Just a counter and a row of cupboards) and the heat is up to 25 C. That should be good enough.’ ‘Yeah’ agreed a couple as they settled very quickly, taking jackets off as blankets and the sorts. Over light went out in two minutes, but they left a small lantern on for comfort.
… Jack settled down thinking, they will all go into the bigger valley via Gillian tomorrow and make their decision right then. After all, with Jeremy away, these 4 men were the bulk of our group from Iceberg Plateau. Jack thought, if some do not wish to come they can stay with Papa, where Jeremy wishes them to be. That is not my decision! (Jack is tired, obviously.) Good Night! …
–

The Ambush?.
… They woke in morning to the light flooding into the sky light. All were extra hungry for did not eat much yesterday. Even Gillian was hungry, for he originally was on route to go back to Iceberg, to eat some good normal food. So after several complaints, Ranger Jack went to Gillian and called him outdoors for a breath of fresh air. The others watched them go and were satisfied to stay under covers for now. There was no food, so be it.
… Jack was out first and Gillian followed. They went out to where the rocks were just being hit with the sun. Jack sat on a warmer edge as Gillian stood a distance, in question. Jack announced ‘I am in a Jam and need your help. You being out and about among these parts, could you help me get food for these fellows?’ Gillian smiled and replied, ‘Oh is that all! I thought you were going to ambush me or something.’ ‘No’ uttered Jack, ‘I am too hungry. We ate a bit before we left for our journey yesterday, but that was in mid-day. I will not go back to Jeremy’s camp now, I would rather move to this new solarium here. Is their food about?’ ‘Yes, get the people up and I will take you to a place I normally get food.’ ‘How Fortunate! Thank you, Sir, I owe you one.’
… Jack went into the 4th solarium and talked to the fellows while Gillian stayed out in the warming sun. He was hoping that he could come up with some food, now that he had promised Jack. He looked about and analyzed what the weather would be like today. It was good but cold. The sun will warm all up. At least its not snowing.
Then in 6 minutes out piled the other gentlemen. Jack looked to the hill he had been talking to Gillian by, then Gillian waved and headed in their direction. As Gillian passed our group he said, ‘Come on gentlemen it is this way.’ Then he led them around a plateau just down beyond the 4th solarium.
–
… As they went around a group of trees, there was a valley, a Big valley with a lake and many woods there. There was very little snow for it was a fair distance down to the bottom of this valley. Some of the group asked, ‘Is that where we are going?’ Gillian replied ‘Yes, it is.’ ‘But how?’ asked Andy. (It was steep cliffs as far as the eye could see.) ‘One would be a fool to attempt that climb,’ added Andy. Gillian finally said after hearing all the whispers, ‘Just wait, we will come to a way down in about 10 minutes.’
… As they went, this valley seemed to break open even more and got larger as they went. This lake was huge and it looked as if there were settlements down there, although it was far down and not clearly visible. Frank hurried up his walking to be beside Gillian and asked, ‘Who owns this valley?’ Gillian replied, ‘I am not sure but there are people there.’ Jack was truly surprised, as most were. He asked quietly, ‘Why did Jeremy not see this?’
… As they went they were getting hungrier but when they were near the way down, there were wild strawberries all around them. They did not see the contraption that would take them down this steep incline, they were too hungry. (When hunger overtakes you, all you see is food.)
… So after 10 minutes of being upside down scrounging for something to eat on ground level, they all became alive again. They sat about this area with many boulders, harboring tall grasses and plentiful amounts of wildflowers. The bees and wasps and other insects were chatting aloud, and our group could not help but chat of the beautiful valley before them. Jack announced ‘This is where we should live. I would prefer to start again at this place than go back to that ice trap of Jeremy’s. Boy, he sure missed the bet?’
… Several agreed saying, ‘Yes lets stay here!’ Jack looked around and then questioned, ‘I wonder where there is water?’ Berty said ‘We need a map of this area. Do the maintenance people have maps?’ Jack replied, ‘No not that I know of.’
… As the conversation went on, most were in agreement with Jack, but he was ticked, for when Jeremy was away Jack was concerned for him being in more ice and snow. If this is a place where Jeremy is being present at, Jack will dis-own Jeremy in an instant.
–

Gillian’s Surprise.
… Gillian did not say much but listened. You see, he knew something that the others did not. But he did not wish to turn the tables just yet. He wanted to get these people food and get back to camp, if that be their wish. So they wandered a bit more following Gillian who promised them food.
… They came to a cliff which was almost straight down. Berty asked, ‘And how are we going to get down this abyss?’ He turned to Gillian who had gone a few feet away and was pulling on a dark rubber thing and managed to get it untied from the cliff there. It swung out as he brought it to the fore. He said, ‘Jack, I want you to go down first.’ As the others all stared at this contraption. Gillian went on with, ‘You put it on like a pair of pants.’ as he was showing them. He got into this contraption as Jack was saying, ‘I thought you said I would go down first?’ Gillian agreed, ‘Yes I will take you down. I know how to handle this thing and it can be kind-of-tricky for newcomers. You and I will wait down there, to catch the others as they come down, Understand?’ ‘Oh Sure!’ was Jack’s answer.
… Gillian spoke to the rest, ‘You all know how to put this on?’ ‘Yes’ was answered. ‘OK it is simple, just like putting on a pair of pants. Now come to the edge people.’ So, they all went crowding to the edge as Gillian gave them more instructions. ‘Please do not jump forward for if you do, you will swing backward like a swing and hit the cliff as you come down. There is a ledge here if you can see? This gives you the ability to just jump normally as if you are jumping into a swimming pool. Understand, it is a straight jump. Have all got that?’ They all agreed. Then Gillian called, ‘Jack, come hug me, … no in front.’ ‘Alright’ uttered Jack as they hugged each. Gillian said, ‘We will see you when you get down. Take care. Oh and the contraption will come up via the rope we pull below. It will lift the contraption up to this level so wait for it. Pick a person to go and go for it. There is food, and good food below. OK?’ ‘Yes.’ “Geronimo,” hollered Gillian as Jack hollered “Gees”.
… As they quickly disappeared from our groups sight, our men stood looking at each other. After a minute. Berty (who Gillian was looking at when he said, choose the next person to come down) decided to ask, ‘Ship ahoy, who would like to go next? I’m sure it is safe. Jack is there or I hope he is. Well, if the contraption does not come back to us, they went to their death.’ Frank uttered ‘Well I am sure Gillian knows what he is talking of. He must have taken that many times, for he is always out scouting.’ ‘Yes’ agreed Andy. So, they sat on boulder or log as could be found and waited.
… Well to everyone’s surprise the contraption did in-fact return, so they made their jump into the abyss each one in order. The last one was Frank for he felt more secure than others. Well, Frank was totally surprised, as all were. The others before him were already at the lake fishing for dinner. They got the poles from these other people. It was a family of 4 boys and the parents with grandparents. Frank asked Gillian, ‘Who are these people?’ Gillian replied, ‘I met them a few weeks back when in trouble myself, and they took me in to feed and get warmed up.’ He explained further, ‘Here is a rod, go catch yourself a fish dinner and they will cook it for you. We will stay here till all are replenished. We may even stay the night.’ Frank uttered ‘Thanks Gillian,’ and ran toward the lake. He was surprised to see how big and clear it was. A mountain lake with deep clear water, a very good source of drinking water. How fortunate these people are, thought Frank.
… As many were catching big fish, they came back towards this large Log cabin within the few wooded areas near this lake. Frank came back very soon for I guess was lucky in catching fish. Each one took their fish in and was sent out again to not be in the way of dinner preparations. As our group gathered again Gillian got their attention. He pointed eastward into this nice early spring air and said, ‘There is an extra cabin there, see. I have spent many nights there myself. These people like helping travelers and also enjoy the company. All is right, and Frank, thanks for Jumping. I know the last person could get very antsy. I’ve been there before.’ With that Gillian smiled and turned to visit the grandparents as overlooking the lake, on the front porch.
… Well, they did stay the night to the delight of the adults all. The guys were able to go boating and did see other settlements further up the lake. Jack did not go for was busy with Gillian and the owners of this large cabin. That was good for Jack, he needed a rest. He was getting more and more ticked off at Jeremy. ‘To think we could have been ‘Here’ all this time.’
… He talked to Gillian several times and was calmed by what he told him. Just before our group was leaving, to go back to Jeremy’s original camp, Jack cornered Gillian and asked. ‘Do you know if Jeremy lives in this area?’ Gillian was on the spot but felt maybe he should tell. He did, but Jack just wandered off not saying a word.

–

Chapter 6 … Silver Ridge Plateaus .

–

Jack Wanders Off .
… When our group was ready to go, Jack was not there. Gillian replied, ‘I believe Jack went home early and if we hurry, we may be able to catch up with him.’ Gillian was hoping anyway. He felt kind of guilty for he could have waited a few more hours till they were hiking home again, then Jack may have stayed.
… Gillian is hoping that Jack did not lose his head and go to find Jeremy within this valley. That would be worthless for valley is huge. He has some idea where Jeremy is but has not been there. Considering the rest of the valley, Gillian knows Jeremy is living far better than his isolated group in ice land. He understands Jack’s dilemma.
–

Jack’s Venture.
… Well Jack did in-fact go looking for Jeremy. He traveled for 3 hours and came to higher ground. As he clambered through the rocky boulders on this hill, he came to the edge and looked over the land viewing many miles. It was all beautiful land with the large lake and the river that fed it. He felt he found heaven. But when he saw how large this area was, he knew he could not find Jeremy within that day or even that week. He was darkened of that.
… He thought of the rest of the group and wondered if they went without him. He sat for an hour puzzling of what to do. Then he got hungry. He could not go back to where they were and impose on them again. They were gracious hostesses, and let’s leave it be, at that. Since he was on higher ground, why go lower then have to go higher again. So he analyzed the direction he was to go and started off. (Being a Ranger, he had wilderness sense, more than most.)
–
… As going back Jack had much time to think of a plan. He thought of talking to the copter person but realized he could not contact this fellow for it was Jeremy’s friend. He thought of going back to main continent to get to airport and find another with a helicopter. This would be a good way to find Jeremy. The airport should know where the copter’s flight paths have been. Well, maybe if Jeremy was still at camp, the copter would come to pick him up. I will try to talk to the driver again. He started feeling enraged again.
… I hope I can. I am not sure what else to do! I must know where Jeremy goes. I must!’ (He was becoming over come again. ‘Where is Gillian to calm me?’)
–
… At this point both our groups and Jack were going home, (as they should) to a harsh winter in the icy mountain tops. Not a place one looks forward to. But with others of their groups in these snowy peeks, they had to, for that’s what you should do in life!
–

Gillian’s Group to Iceberg Plateau.
… The group led by Gillian was doing OK, but Gillian was not talking much for felt guilty about Jack. Well after over a day’s travel, our group got home, and all ran to greet them. They took them in and fed them what they could.
… Gillian was very pleased because the one guy, Papa, had been instigator to move most of the belongings to the second solarium which had much space and was much warmer than the buildings they lived. Gillian thanked them all, while all the ladies were present and still hulling boxes. And there were the kids as instructed, organizing the boxes and placing them in each corner they were to go.
… But then, Gillian was alarmed when Jack was in-fact not there for 3-4 days. Anna replied, ‘No I have not seen him since they left 4 days ago at mid day. Is he hurt?’ Gillian answered ‘No, he lost his head and I believe went looking for Jeremy.’ Anna said, ‘Well Jeremy is here! We left him in the old meeting room. He will stay there this winter.’
… Anna paused then went on quietly, ‘I will say to watch. Some of his maintenance persons of which there are again 4, ganged up on him. He has not been treating them well. Now that Jack has been missing, Jeremy is getting it from his workers. We have left him, for he is in a mood, you can bet. And with that gun he has, well, need I say more?’ ‘No-No! Thanks for telling me. Just leave him for now.’
… Well, life settled a bit and they organized themselves in the warmer Solarium. They knew the third was about a 30 minute walk and if it be necessary, some may or will stay there. But they had a choice now. All spirits had been lifted with the re-arranging and all the possibilities. Gillian stayed with them for most of the winter for he now, had just as good a site, as any he stayed at, last winter.
–

Jack High in Mountains .
… Meanwhile Jack had stayed in the higher ranges of altitude for he was tiring and felt, if he stayed high, he would eventually meet the icy mountains of Jeremy.
As days went by and with Jack in his own thoughts, he had some miss steps. He was not watching as a scout should. He was in-fact lost. He panicked a bit for was in deep cold, High in mountains. He was going along wading waist high in snow which was wearing him down badly. He was exhausted but blamed himself. … He was very down but then he came to a bunch of deciduous trees that had very thick branches. As getting closer to these big trees, mainly for shelter from the snow and wind, he found he was looking down on a plateau. The snow there was patchy, and he saw a homestead. His heart jumped in glee. He thought, I am safe now, and he put his thoughts away of burying himself to die.
… He slowed down and went to edge of cliff. He thought to climb down into this valley via the big tree branches before him. Thus he will, but after he sits on a big branch to catch his breath.
… As he got down, he saw a snowmobile racing by with a father and child, and behind this snow-scouter was a large Irish Setter scampering about enjoying the snowy terrain. Jack just stood there in the shadow of this big tree as tears welled up within him.
… After a minute or two the scouter came by again. Suddenly it stopped with a slide. The guy shouted, ‘Hey are you OK Sir?’ Well, since Ranger Jack had on his red ski-jacket the guy must have seem him. (Jack wears this often for red is quite a visible color, and if any of his Group had gotten lost, they would know him from a distance.)
… Jack spoke up and said, ‘No, I have been lost for hours. Could I get a ride somewhere please.’ ‘Oh Sure, wait there I will come!’ So the snowmobile came right to Jack and he just slid onto the back seat with the girl, as they went speedily onto the homestead. The dog had run off into the bush as still playing, but he knew his way home.
–

Meeting Old Friends.
… As they were going homeward through this well beaten path in the snow, Jack looked at this guy who was asking all kinds of questions. Then Jack asked, ‘Have we met before?’ Jack being out of it was foggy brained at that point. Ranger Peter replied, ‘No I do not think so.’ (It was 3 plus years since he rescued Papa and Marsha, so he sort of forgot also.)
… Peter uttered, ‘Come on in!’ as he helped Jack into home. He called Marilyn, ‘Dear can you make some hot soup for this wanderer please.’ ‘Sure, I was making dinner now, so not a problem.’ Peter sat Jack down and asked Suzy to fill a hot water bottle for the man. ‘OK’ and she was off.
… Jack was relaxing in the warmth of a nice home. His eyes were tired and he closed them. Peter left him to be quiet as he went to Suzy. He took the water bottle to Jack and said quietly, ‘This is best at your back Sir.’ ‘Yes’ muttered Jack, ‘thank you.’ Peter said ‘You rest now. Call if you need help.’ Jack answered ‘yes’ and smiled nodding his head again.
… Jack ended up lying on the couch and they came with a blanket. He slept for 4 hours of which time they awoke him for some hot soup. Just to check on him, is ell. He was fine and ate his soup. He was up talking for a while when they offered him a bedroom. He uttered, ‘Oh that would be great. I’m just very tired. It is hard to travel in three feet of snow for hours at a time.’
… Peter asked, ‘Yes where were you traveling to?’ ‘Oh a place in the mountains between three peaks.’ Peter uttered ‘Three Peaks?’ He thought for a minute then asked, ‘Do you know a Marsha?’ Jack became alert. ‘Yes, she is a young lady at our camp there.’ Then they both came to the realization at same time. Jack uttered, ‘Oh its you!’ Peter replied, ‘With her Papa!’ Peter then asked, ‘How is Papa?’ Jack answered, ‘The last time I saw him about three-four days ago he was good.’ ‘Gracious, that is swell!’ answered Peter. Jack asked, ‘You are the other Ranger that came to us for a few hours that time, Right?’ ‘Yes, good to see you again. How is your group, and is Jeremy behaving now?’
… Jack explained ‘Well the story goes on Sir, you know life!’ That is the reason why I got trapped out in the snowy peaks. He is at it again and I am becoming intolerable over him.’ Peter replied, ‘Well I haven’t seen him in the news lately.’ ‘No he is here tormenting us now!’
… Jack went on with. ‘We have just realized that Jeremy has been living in a beautiful valley just beyond these mountains out here.’ Peter uttered, ‘Gracious, Jade’s Valley, yes that is a beautiful place all right. I go there for a vacation sometimes.’ ‘Yes’, agreed Jack, ‘We just saw this valley the other day and feel strongly that, this is where Jeremy has his second site. He did not say a thing but has been robbing us of our food as we struggle to maintain our sanity.’
… Jack went on talking with Peter, …’On top of that, we are staying where he wanted us to stay but as we went exploring his area, we found 4 solariums built into the mountains via Jeremy, for storage and crop production. The third and forth solarium we have just found. These are in fact empty and heated as we shiver in Jeremy’s camp! I have had it with that guy! He better watch out for me, now!’ Peter said, ‘Be calm Sir. All will come to an end eventually.’ Jack was frothing again and apologized. He said, ‘I must be getting too old for this roughing it now.’ Peter replied, ‘Not to worry, I could order an arrest. I would leave you out of it totally.’ ‘Gees! That would be Good. I may kill the guy before the rangers come for him. I should not feel this way, but I have Really had it !!! … Sorry. ‘
… Peter told, ‘He is still wanted by several governments of area. I just need to have verification of his wrong doings.’ Jack replied enthusiastically, ‘Well take me to his Iceberg and those people will spill the beans. We have all been shouted at and shoved about. And all know the paining cold, we have to endure in the winter, which I might add, its upon us now. Take me for a ride and they will write letters all, of their difficult life. And of the now new buildings, we explored and stayed in with delight, but it was only one night.’ ‘Swell!’ said Ranger Pete. ‘Lets get some sleep and we will go after breakfast. How’s that?’ ‘Great … Thank you, I owe you Sir.’ Peter replied ‘That is fine, it is my job to help those in need.’ ‘Yeah mine too but I got waylaid via Jeremy, My Friend???’ ‘Well, he was before.’ I’m not sure what happened but I have to stop talking. I’m beat. Good night and thanks.’ Peter said ‘The second door on your right.’ Jack smiled and went for sleep.
–

Trip to Iceberg Plateau.
… Next day, they went to near city to the shop that sold phones and Peter got the Main Hall, a wall phone for security reasons. He explained, ‘It is better for the common person in these trying times. Then they jumped the copter and in a short time landed in Iceberg Plateau. The people there were more than willing to write a report of what happened in their eyes. So many of them wrote of the same happenings. This was verification of the incidences by Jeremy. Peter told Jack that he would have an inspector come to mountains to view the area but not to say anything to anyone. He will come, as in viewing possibilities for himself. Mention of no inspection or the likes. He is just a friend of mine. OK?’ ‘Sure Peter, I appreciate this. When do you think you will proceed?’ Peter said with surprise, ‘Right Now! He will be nabbed either there or here. Not to worry.’
… Jeremy was not present for was off in his new Valley. So all was completed with no problems. I guess he kept leaving and returning for felt the lawmen were after him. His friend with his own copter shunted him many times. I wonder if he was getting paid? 150 a trip. Well Jeremy must have had money somewhere? That, would be like him.

–

Chapter 7 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

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Ranger Pete’s Endeavor.
… Peter left them with hope in their hearts for sure. He was determined to win their war for them. He has had dealings with others like this, and in-fact has a relative of same nature, so it was healing for Peter as well.
… Ranger Pete had about 5 hours of light for flight this day, so he went straight there to the near cities official buildings. He came down on the roof top and knew his way. Being a parks Ranger he had dealing with these people and they knew him. The road was paved for this Ranger Pete you bet. In secret he actually warned them before hand that this would transpire eventually. But always at the right time.
… He went down their fast elevator about 20 floors to the office areas he knew. He asked for a meeting with Shaven, one of the top detectives there. When he vouched by voice and paperwork, Shaven agreed, ‘Yes I will take the case.’ Shaven asked, Do you know where Jeremy is in this valley you speak of? Peter answered, ‘No sorry. None of our group knows this. Peter went on with, ‘He is Jeremy Whitman. Is that an Alias?’ ‘Yes he has 4 names. That is the most recent one.’ replied Shaven. ‘We need to find out exactly where this Valley is you talk of.’ Peter stated, ‘Well I have my copter on the roof!’ ‘Oh good, can we go now. It will go faster if they know which valley.’ Pete replied, ‘Of Course, come.’ Shaven said, ‘OK give me 5 minutes. Wait in the waiting room there please.’ ‘Sure.’ And out went Peter.
… Well they did get to valley but did not stay. Peter took Shaven back to office with all the particulars but then had to go straight home. It was getting Dusky and Peter did not wish to be out at this time. He got home safely and waited for a call.
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Winter Again .
… As time got rougher through the winter Jack did confront the copter that Jeremy usually commands, but Jeremy is now often overcome by emotions and is letting things slide. Nobody knows where he is at this point, so this gave Jack the opportunity to talk to copter driver Buddy who is also delivering to the new valley. Jack asked gingerly for a ride there and Buddy said, ‘ You-Bet-cha!’ This all turned out good and Jack let Buddy take him right to Jeremy’s home in Jade’s Valley.
… Jack did not go in but they hovered in copter while Jack took many pictures of area. Then Jack told Buddy, ‘I must get home, could we go now please. Thanks.’ And Buddy took Jack home to the Ice Burg again.
… Well with that fly-by, Jack did see the fields of harvested produce. It was lush land and did not freeze much in winter. Jack had an edge now and was going to turn him in. He had not heard from Peter or any lawyer to boot. He would give it another try, now.
… Jeremy will break Jack’s back if continues taking over half their produce. Something had to give, especially with winter upon them. Peter was anxious as well, for had not heard from Head Office. Pete had got busy to pass the time, and is helping the two valleys to team up by taxiing to exploring areas for better land. There must be better plateaus in area. Jack and the rest were quiet of the solarium so if Jeremy did appear in their icy plateau he did not know where everyone was.
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… Well, eventually Jeremy did come to again, and got physical. With Jack having a copter come and take some to Jeremy’s new valley, Jack had people shooting at the copter from the hills. But copter driver Buddy is equipped with camera, and got pictures. This will go to court. This was the beginning of the end for Jeremy, but it sure thwarted our groups travel.
… So it turned out that Jeremy vanished again, leaving them high and dry. They struggled and made their way by foot, to the other valley to hunt for him. Flying there was out of the question now. But when they traveled by foot for 3 days, Jade’s Valley was doing OK and had no idea where Jeremy went. They schemed together and agreed to catch Jeremy after talking to Ranger Pete. Just recently Ranger Pete as well as Ranger Jack had the right to take one into custody when they knew or had paper work on the person. Both these Rangers were sent paperwork again, via their outfit. So Jeremy who was wanted in several places is again in their hands, if they could only find him.
… With now both valleys very low on money, they could not afford another trip even for needed goods. They wanted Jeremy out of the picture. They did not like him or his men shooting at them from the hills. The valley was becoming dangerous, for all were being shot at indiscriminately. This made Ranger Pete stay out of area. He did not wish to get his copter shot up and or himself. He bowed out for thought, ‘I already went to the Lawyers officials. What the heck are they doing?’ He figures it was spy work for it often takes a long time to figure what a criminal is up to, and whom also is involved. But this case, our people knew was pretty straight forward. The guy was a loony, is all.
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… As time went by our groups knew they had more evidence in the shootings, for some got them on camera. Jack and Berty also knew they had to get this evidence to the right people. Our group did talk of this but since Peter did not come by anymore they were stranded. Marsha spoke up for knew where Pete Ranger was, so they took their opportunity and several packed up much and ventured out into the mountains. They took Marsha to the crevices she knew the whereabouts of, and she with much food found her way back to Peter’s place again. Marsh talked to Peter of the plans and that the groups of both areas Jeremy occupies, wish to rid of him now.
… With Marsha’s trip accomplished, most others made their way back to Iceberg Plateau waiting for an answer. Thus Peter was able to gather the evidence from both groups, and Marsha got a ride again to Iceberg Valley. Well, It was the next day that all were elated when the copter was seen and heard. And with Marsha saving them for a second time, she as a young lady was the talk of both towns, as Pete was idolized in his copter with pictures, pinned up about Iceberg Plateau. They seemed to be pulled together as heroes here.
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… Ranger Pete stayed at Iceberg Plateau a while, and the two Rangers talked at length of situation. Peter asked Jack if he would come with him. For one, Peter did not know why his trusted lawyer did not even call him. He was wondering and spent some time discussing this with Jack. He questioned, ‘Maybe they need more evidence? If so they would have to come here, and that may be detouring them. This place is not a kind place for a city dweller.’ ‘Yes I agree’ spoke Jack.
… Jack continued with, ‘Good-Good, I will come and bring Gillian also.’ ‘Glorious! Sounds good to me. I’ll take my copter. So when would you like to go?’ Jack did not know. He was not sure where Gillian was neither. He announced, ‘We have a Winter Games Night tomorrow. Please stay for the games and we will talk with Gillian, I am sure he is just absent at the moment, I hope.’ Peter was unsure and they talked a bit more.
… Then Peter asked, ‘Do you know where Jeremy is at this point?’ ‘Winds of fortune, he will be in his beautiful valley for sure.’ Jack could see Peter was perplexed, for Jeremy would have words for Peter if he saw a copter in his Burg Valley again. Jack replied, ‘Not to worry Sir.’ ‘Just feeling inundated Sir’ uttered Peter, ‘I will stay so long as he is not in iceberg area.’ Jack replied, ‘Till the morrow then! I will hunt for Gillian this afternoon. You can bunk down in our home, the one right there. As he pointed westward across the Central Gardens. We have books and other things to do. Or you can stay here and chat with others, Your choice.’ ‘I’m swell’ answered Peter. ‘You go find Gillian.’ So they parted.
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… Well when the next day came, more and more people ventured into the icy cliffs. The people from Jade’s Valley were also attending these Winter Games of the Iceberg Plateau, this last year or two. They have fun stuff mostly in Summer but winter can be a drag. Besides, many had to come see this three peaked icy plateau, that Jeremy’s people struggled within. With all the people that may come The ladies of both valleys pitched in and were very busy at times. They thanked God that there were many crops this year. But with the crops Jade’s Valley brought in, all was smooth sailing for Winter Games Night. The men from Jade’s Valley came ready prepared for a competition. It was going to be exciting for sure, to have strangers competing.
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… Ranger Peter was definitely swept up in these games. He had heard of this but did not dare to come. Now with all the friendly people here he was delighted. But Peter was a bit concerned for the evidence in the copter. It was secure in the copter but just the same, Peter finally talked to Jack again and mentioned his concern. Jack uttered, ‘In a Jam, come, let’s get the stuff and put it under lock and key. That is not a problem. Come on!’ ‘Swell said Peter,’ and off they went to the copter.
… Then, as getting to the copter in the cold evening air, who should come along but Gillian. ‘Hi sir, Are you Peter, the one I keep hearing about?’ ‘Yes Sir, and you must be Gillian.’ ‘Yep, I am not often here for long, so it would be hard to meet me. But Scheherazade, you have now!’ As they shook hands Peter asked, ‘ Are you coming to help us put up a good front for the lawyers?’ ‘Yea’ answered Gillian, with a question. ‘Good’ replied Peter. Gillian said, ‘I heard of that also. What was I to do?’ ‘Oh, basically just be with us.’ answered Jack. ‘We are just going to hand them a bunch of film and paper work is all. But it is the numbers that Peter is concerned of. He went before and this top lawyer was going to take the case, but not Peter nor I, have heard from the firm, and that was 8 months ago! So we want to try again. That’s all.’ ‘Yep Sure’ agreed Gillian. ‘I can put in my 2 cents worth.’ ‘Good Sir, we appreciate that.’
–
… So two days after the games, Peter Jack and Gillian got up very early before others and took off. Others heard copter go and tried to rush out, but it was cold and they were stopped short as copter left into the cold looking horizon. Some had their heart fall to their belly for fear that Peter just left, or something did not turn out right. But with conversation they realized that Peter and Jack wanted to get to the lawyers early so to have the day to chat.
… Well our three arrived into civilization again but were very nervous. It was like their last chance to make a stab at Jeremy, before he decided to attack with his troops. They got to the roof top and Peter followed same routine as other times, but Jack and Gillian were bug-eyed. They had no idea that there was a building this tall in their homeland. 35 stories to say the least. They quietly followed Pete’s lead.
… They were asked by office personnel to wait in the sitting room, but after 20 minutes they were getting antsy. They almost left, when they were suddenly called in. Well, there before them were 5 lawyers, and our three felt they were in the spot light. What did they do wrong now?
… The lawyers asked them to present their evidence and Peter walked a box of stuff up to the long tables these lawyers were seated at. They waited till Peter sat again and then they said, ‘We know this Jeremy from past. He has been very outstanding in education and a couple here actually attended law school with this person. We are sorry for the months of delay but we did not know which way to go. I hope this evidence gives us a broader look at the situation, and with three here today there must be some kind of urgency.’
… Gillian put his hand up and Pete uttered sh… A lawyer asked, ‘Yes?’ Gillian explained ‘There is a urgency here Sir! Jeremy’s people are firing shotguns at the general population of this new valley we just discovered this past month. When we took helicopters into or even near the valley we were shot at as well. There is footage within the new evidence there Sir.’ ‘Oh well we will certainly be looking this evidence over.’ ‘Why is he in that area, do you know?’ ‘Winds of fortune’ uttered Jack. ‘He asked me to help him open up the land there, along with others. He started in the high mountains but I guess lost interest. Now he is in this valley called Jade’s Valley. I am not sure why he is there but climate is much better than the high mountains.’ ‘OK thank you, Be seated please.’
… Well, as an hour went by with several lawyers missing at different times, It turned out that, with the camera footage of where Jeremy’s house was and all the cases of gunfire from the hills above Jade’s Valley, this has turned the tide.
… Our three cooled their heels for almost 2 hours and were getting antsy again. But then all lawyers were present and they asked, ‘Who got the transportation here?’
Peter spoke up and questioned ‘I did, Why?’ ‘Would you give us a ride over total area. We need to know who’s land it truly is.’ ‘Glorious!’ uttered Peter. ‘But if I take you all, there will be no room. I have a small copter Sir. Sorry!’ ‘That is fine. If your people wish you can go get something to eat. We will be only half an hour?’ ‘Well maybe almost an hour.’ replied Peter. ‘It also depends on whom is firing at us. I will not get my copter harmed, Sir!’ One lawyer agreed ‘True, we will Duck tail it out of there if there is, for sure!’
… The lawyers spoke quietly among themselves then one stood up. ‘You Sir.’ Jack answered ‘Yes?’ ‘Come here.’ They got together at table and spoke quietly to each other. Then Jack came away smiling at our two. As Jack got back to his chair, one lawyer stood and said, ‘Now Pete, we are ready to go. The 4 of us will go for sure and if you can fit more in, we will.’ ‘Alright’ agreed Pete. ‘I believe 6 can fit in copter. Shall we go now?’ ‘Yes, lead the way please.’ As they were pulling out of the office, one looked back at the 5 people left and instructed ‘OK men have a good meal. We will see you in an hour. Bye.’
… Peter went ahead and 6 did fit into copter. They will fly by Ice Burg three Peaks as well as Jade’s Valley. The Lawyers have a large map and will get that out as they fly by. They want Pete to point out the house where Jeremy was to be staying and the hills where the shootings were taking place.
… Meanwhile, the lawyers left at the office, gathered along with Jack and Gillian and went down to car park so to take a trip to the nearest large restaurant. They had a good meal with much laughter.
… When Pete flew the lawyers back from the Ice Burg, the others were waiting, with Jack and Gillian looking elated.
… The lawyers agreed, ‘We will take the case but we may have to go in with troupes. Go home and prepare to stay away from the Valley of Jade’s. That is where the action will take place. That is, if what you saw is correct.’ ‘Good’ replied Jack, ‘Jeremy usually stays there in the summers.’ Head lawyer Shaven said ‘OK, Bye for now and thanks for bringing this to us!’
… Well, our group was elated just to get out of there. They headed for the roof and as Peter took off he handed his phone to Jack and said, get Berty or George on the phone please! (they had recently installed one phone near Central Square.)
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Spreading the News.
… Peter phoned on ahead to say he was coming with news. Our people at Ice Burg Town, got food prepared and the Town Meeting Hall heated for the occasion.
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… Ranger Pete along with Jack and Gillian landed in Town Square and all greeted in the courtyard. Some had gotten one of the rare evergreens and was preparing for the Christmas season. Thus they had to take pictures of Pete with Marsha as their two heroes. And Jack along with Gillian got in with the tree pictures and a few other officials. All was jovial and the kids had their musical strings out with caroling as well.
… As things calmed down Peter was asked of Jeremy, ‘Would he come back soon?’ Peter did not know and this prompted Peter to ask, ‘Why?’ Jack and Gillian could not believe what they heard. In fact our people were living again in the old Iceberg Plateau. They were not too mad, for the Winter Games are finished and they would have been here anyways, for a week or two to clean up. But our three did manage to get the story out of the people.
… They had recently been ordered out of the solariums by Jeremy, at gun point. Thus most of the people here were again on edge regarding Jeremy. He told them that the heated solarium were for dignitaries who may come at any time. Our people did not know of that, but they also did not know what Jeremy did, all the time he was away, in his valleys? or plateaus?
… Then Berty appeared and said to the people, ‘Well, we can go back and live in the solarium. I have had a gun in my belongings all through this endeavor, but we had no way to get ammo, so forgot I had a gun. Now with being forced out by Jeremy, I remembered my gun and a few weeks back Peter gave me a ride to the ammo shop he gets his hunting bullets from. So now I will tell all of you that If Jeremy does in fact come again, I will take care of him at gun point as he took care of us.’
… Well, there were a few cheers for Berty. On top of that Peter and Jack agreed. They were in shock for had no idea of this incident. They were probably flying that copter of Peter’s somewhere for they have been very busy at times. So When our top people heard this they gave Berty the go ahead, especially since Jeremy would be in jail very soon anyway.
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… After a few minutes they shunted Ranger Pete and others into the meeting room where there was much food (from games night) laid out on tables in buffet style. The Dishes and bowls did not match, for were what they could scrounge up. But it still was a welcomed style, for it implied there is much food and you can have all you wish. Thus all were jovial again for All knew it was a time of good prosperity. They were anguished to hear of ‘Gun play’ in our prestige parks? Who’d a thunk?’ Most wanted to know from Peter, of how Jeremy was going to be taken in.
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… Well through dinner, Ranger Pete answered their questions. He announced ‘People, ‘We are to stay clear of Jade’s valley for a week or two. There may be gun fire but the troops will try to keep civilian harm down to nil.’ Peter had their attention now for this was serious. He explained, ‘They will have a troop of 10 go in incognito, through the bush of Jade’s Valley. They will find the acreage where Jeremy is and surround the home. They will storm in and get Jeremy and any accomplices there. There will be emergency trucks near and will marched the men in and lock the doors. Jeremy will probably be in jail for a long time. They will also get most of the other helpers behind bars too. This is what was told to me, anyway.’
… Jack leaned over toward Peter as Peter added, ‘Oh yes, there will be a trial and if the officials wish or need, I know there are many people in our area including yourselves, whom will be grateful to testify of their adventures with Jeremy.’
–
… That was all Peter had to say but it was plenty, and all were good for another round of the delicious food. That was an evening most will remember.
… Later Peter talked to many of how the lawyers crowded into the copter and many did not look at what Ranger Peter was pointing out to them, as they flew over our valleys towards the north. They were too interested in the land layout and spoke several names of owners belonging to different parts of this landscape. Peter told, ‘Because of this I am stumped as to what our group actually owns here. ‘We are not a hundred percent sure what Jeremy owned. That never came up.’
… So before the evening was out, many were braced as to, maybe they would be asked to leave this area. Or maybe their Ice Burg would turn into a resort or likes. ‘Whatever,’ thought some, ‘it may be a God sent to be rid of this place!’
… Gillian and Jack having been down into the lower valleys of what was to be Jeremy’s land, felt sorry if that was to happen. They know the beauties there. And often our small group remembers the summer days when all were out relaxing and enjoying the bountiful nature of our Silver Ridge Plateaus.
… As the weeks went by they were called to court hearings and with many testifying from our groups, Jeremy is behind bars, but for only 5 years! Along with that, they were told he would get mental therapy. Well maybe it was a phase he went through but many people may not stay within the plateaus, if he does return.

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Chapter 8 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

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Spring After Jeremy.
… Later as things settled down and spring was coming, out into the terrain went many. It was a good break for most, now that winter has left. But also it was a break from the constant nagging of, you better keep working fast or Jeremy will have to be dealt with, repeatedly going through everyone’s mind. They got much relief without their so called boss around.
… This next spring and summer were happy and bountiful times, for any food they produced was theirs for the eating. This got everyone who could work, out into the sunshine and they were making ends meet. With this they will be able to have extra Winter Game Meals even without Jade’s Valley.
… They were now living within the heated Solariums, so kept warmer in winter. And to most that was a winner for all. They may stay because they wish to now. Life was good and one of the ladies was expecting child. This is a sign that they are truly progressing here.
… In the lower hills the cows goats and donkeys would graze in peace. With the abundance of trees in lower areas, our group had build strong fencing that would withstand the dumps of winter snow, but in summer it was delightful to see the tall wildflowers that these fences supported.
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Gillian Returns.
… Then one time nearing mid-summer, Gillian came back from a long jaunt. He brought back a type of cart he had pieced together with odds and ends. It had a large burlap-sack upon it which was heavy. He spoke to all he passed as many were out in the summer air, resting and enjoying nature. The children of 4 were chasing each around and had a can which could be heard ringing off sometimes. This also gave encouragement to Gillian for he is working hard in the hills about. He knows most do not know this, but he enjoys their fun when visiting.
… Gillian has taken over the second solarium or a large portion of it. And at this point he has filled it with odds and ends. Some of the people go there for extra articles used mostly in winter months, but they do not get nosy. ‘That is Gillian’s corner,’ and they stay out.
… Gillian was pleased with this for does not wish people nosing into his stuff. He is happy with his situation and often is eager to continue on. After all, he just got into this profession and I guess he wishes to succeed along those lines. It is a good place for him for no other archeologist is or knows of this area. He has the whole mountain range at his disposal. And I’m sure he will dispose of it bit by bit.
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Secrets of Phantom Plateau.
… Later on in this summer, Gillian returned and there seemed to be a different tone in the air. There was another Town Meeting to air problems as happened most years. But this year they felt freer to speak. Problems of not having a watering system in service was brought up, which would be a major plus for gardening. The poor donkeys whom are getting older after the harsh 5 years, would be freer to give the children rides and to graze with the cattle.
… They do not have a potty system in neither, and at this later summertime, there is a stench smelled often, to a point of not being tolerable. They ignored much of this in earlier years, for it meant they had to face Jeremy and his ways. But now that Jeremy is not here, these small problems are nagging at many.
… As of lately Gillian has been coming back more often to meet with others and often attends the complaint conferences. He seems to have much on his mind but must be waiting for the right time. And in fact, this time is coming closer for the new child is born and mom needs sanitation more now than ever. After all, the water sits for hours before baby gets its bottle.
… Now, we all know that when water sits it takes on the tastes of the air about. Thus, it is taking on the germs of the air. That is not good for a young child and Gillian is about to take a stand on this issue. Winter was approaching and now is the time to take action. He asked via phone for a helicopter to come to area of Phantom Plateau. This is a Plateau he has been working at, simply because, when he looked it up there were many complains of spooks in this area. This intrigued Gillian and he had to go see for himself. It took him a time to find the place but he spooked it out.
… Well, as it turned out he struck much in this area. He has kept this a secret and its still a secret. But now he will cash in on what he has. The odds and ends he brings home are decoys for the general public. The real stuff is out of sight in the natural caves of area. So on this day, he went out as he normally does to be within the mountains a week or two. He met the copter there and they proceeded to pack copter with the many gems found within this volcanic rock. They taxied back and forth about 10 times during this week. All was delivered to a mining company who gave Gillian the best ratio of rock to gem percentage. The driver will be paid well too.
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Infer-structure for Iceberg Plateaus.
… On one of his trips into civilization he asked the copter to stay a bit longer, so he could scout about to get surveys for the cost of his plans. And in fact the copter driver Jason tagged along.
… Gillian has also gotten maps of property boundaries and knows there are three other plateaus in our icy area that are even lower. These including the third and forth solariums, will see little freezing in winter. These are the plateaus Gillian plans to have water and sewer set up at and will give our group a new beginning all around. He wants to set this all up to be a surprise for the new year. Boy, are they in for a surprise!
… They have no idea of what Gillian is doing. All know Gillian as a quiet person with a nice smile, and that he is about … sometimes. In secret, before Peter could stop him, Gillian had asked Justice system if our group could be owners to Jeremy’s mountain range, or at least part of it. Apparently our two found that Jeremy fibbed there, for he owns the three peaks and the leads down to ground level only. This does not include any of Jade’s Valley. So Jeremy somehow got that land without funds? Who set this up? Peter feels that Gillian should not have asked that question, for there was no answer. Gillian is not sure about that, but he is very busy helping our group, of which he feels now, he is a part of. After all, he knows well that, without our group there he would have surely died. Many times he would come back starving and was fed well, especially at Winter Game times. So in his mind he is thanking our group with his endeavors.
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The Winter Games.
… It was a few months later in the winter, that Gillian sauntered back to our groups area. He ducked into the Meeting Hall which is still the eating area. He just came to say hi and get warmed up and was happy just to sit and listen to the conversations. He knows now that they are doing OK and the Winter Games are about to begin. He has come back to rest and enjoy these games and may offer to participate within them. They will see more of him for a while.
… Within conversation, Gillian commented on a name for our area being Farthing’s Plateau, heard through Ranger Peter, but others were calling it Iceberg Plateau. He asked all there, ‘What names would you pick?’ ‘Heavens!’ uttered Berty, ‘It is Jeremy’s land, so we could call it The Tigers Arch.’ Frank replied ‘No, it is for Jeremy to name, people.’ Gillian asked, ‘What if it was yours, then what would you name it?’ Frank replied ‘Oh, Well … how about Shakers Land,’ for you shake, most of times you are here.’ George disagreed, ‘No-No, it has to be a nice name. It is beautiful in reality. Like Silver Ridges, or the Towering Three.’ Gillian uttered ‘Scheherazade, I like the Silver Ridge, that is poetic.’ Gillian thought for a minute then agreed, ‘OK, I will call this place the Silver Ridge Plateaus. Thanks.’ And with that he got up and quietly went out the door. The others looked at each and wondered, ‘What the heck,’ then went on in discussions.
… Well, since some of our people did not attend last year’s games, this Winter Games were a hoot with the more variety of contestants. In-fact it was a team from Jade’s Valley that actually won. Our group puzzled long and decided it must have been all the water skiing they do back on that wonderful lake of theirs. There was a bit of jealousy for this was the first year their cup was not displayed on the big shelf in the Meeting Hall. … Instead it was barren!
… Well, with all the complaints of the empty shelf, it did not take long for our ladies of Rose and Anna, to fill that space with large summer and winter bouquets. They were in ridiculous vases though, that were not vases at all but rusted tin cans. Well, there is nothing like the right wrapping paper to hide that fact. Within a month most forgot of the missing cups and were interested in the wildflowers that were forever changed on that front-and-center shelf.
Good going ladies.
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A New Village Found.
… So as the next spring went into summer and with most out within the landscape, suddenly two large copters appeared and flew over our Iceberg area. All had eyes to the clouds as most of the new men ran towards the direction of the copters landing. But it took them almost an hour to find them. They felt they had to, for the thought of Jeremy coming back with army troupes for retaliation, was looming often on our people’s minds. Most did not believe they were free from their tyrant of past, even when it was told he was in jail.
… So as the small group of newcomers from Iceberg Plateau got to this hill, there were the two copters settled near the third and fourth solariums. But that was not the shocker! There were about 50 workers, building and hanging from the heights fixing up the last dealings of this village. Gillian had not only got sewer and water works personnel but with his extra money he also got 15 builders and bricklayers. Here to the groups total surprise was a small village with helicopter port to boot.
… Our people were stunned and just stood on that hill ridge watching the progress. George and Frank had followed the new men of area but at their pace, for George and Frank knew it was in the area of the 4th solarium. So as these newer men started asking question George and Frank whom just arrived on the scene, were able to answer them. ‘Who was going to live here?’ was the main question of this new group.
… As this was going on, the people down on this plateau, were unloading the copters of lumber and bricks. Then the new men noted, off to one side near a mountains slope, there was another solarium. George told the group that this was the 4th and last of Jeremy’s solariums and that being on lower ground it does not freeze much in winter times.
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… George spoke to this new person who came into our area only about a year ago, through Ranger Peter’s visits. This guy Tomson asked, ‘Why are we living in the frozen north then?’ Frank explained, ‘Well Jeremy wished us to open that land and we felt a responsibility to do so. But we have decided to move to lower ground as you know, for many are now living in the second solarium. Frank went on with, I will say that, before next winter we will all live in 3rd or 4th Solariums, the 4th being that one right there. George stepped in and asked as looking Franks way, ‘Well, who is going to live in this village?’ Frank replied ‘I have no Idea. Maybe when Gillian comes back we can ask him. He is often in the know more than any here.’ ‘Good Grief’ uttered George. He looked to the new men and said, ‘We will all ask him when he comes again.’ George and Frank glanced about trying to see if Gillian was among the people building down below, but he was not seen. Frank replied, ‘Well we will have to wait.’
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The Secret Cave.
… Jack was not with The Iceberg group, for he was often off with Peter viewing the area by copter. There are no more gunners shooting at people, and Peter feels free to venture out and about. He feels it would be nice to have a lower area to live at also. So there are many things transpiring in our plateaus these days.
… Well, I heard via the grape vine, that Gillian and Jack had been picked up by Ranger Pete and Gillian has let Pete and Jack know of his plans. Gillian took them to the Phantom Plateau but they had problems landing. Peter had to land on the next plateau so on this day, they had a bit of a hike to get to the hidden caverns.
… It turned out that he could not hold his tongue any longer and wanted advice on building what, where? He talked to them as hiking. He exclaimed ‘I have a small village being built as we speak.’ The other two stopped short and were stunned. ‘What?’ replied Jack, ‘where did you get the money?’ Their questions quickly turned into excitement, to think of living in a village. And with the water and sewer systems that Gillian had mentioned in the copter, it would be a piece of home.
… Gillian seemed to be taking over the designing of this whole area. Why? The other two did not catch this thought, for were too swept up of the possibilities of living in a Village. Peter and Jack again talked of the money and how Gillian was doing this? Gillian replied, ‘Well if you help me I will let you in on the secret.’ He uttered, ‘But first we have to sign papers of that fact. I cannot keep this large area I wish to create, so since you know the history of the beginnings in this area, I will give you run of your sections.’ ‘Oh this is fantastic!’ blurted Peter. Gillian cautioned, ‘But I want you people to keep it quiet please. I wish it to be a surprise.’
They all agreed as they continued their hike. Phantom Plateau was not in deep freeze yet, for it was summer months but there was still snow in places, at this height.
… As they went Gillian was in lead. They came to a big boulder and took a break. As they sat in the warming sun on this rock that was bone dry, they heard the odd bird singing in a high trill and a sleepy buzzy bee came sauntering along to an odd wild flower to feed. Gillian uttered, ‘Oh here,’ as he went fishing into his puffy jacket. He pulled out a couple of papers and a big fat pen which was tied to the inside of his pocket. ‘Yes’ agreed Jack, ‘That is a good way to keep a pen. I am always losing mine from my pockets.’ ‘Isn’t that a Charmer!’ quipped Gillian, ‘It was Anna that did this for me. She is a caring person.’
… He then handed a page each to our two men and instructed, ‘I wish you to sign these after you read them, Please!’ So they were silent for a bit as Gillian wandered the area. He saw much tall grass and three bunnies off to one corner. Then Gillian caught sight of a small fox skulking through the grass and snow, looking for lunch. It suddenly flushed a couple of mountain quails that chattered loudly as they flew. Peter uttered ‘Pheasant, we could have a good meal with them.’ Gillian smiled knowing which birds they were, and came wandering back to the gentlemen. ‘Understand?’ he asked. Peter said ‘Yes I agree.’ ‘Pleased, here use my pen to sign.’
… Then as Peter finished Jack signed also. Gillian uttered ‘Very good. So now we are partners in caring for this area.’ Jack asked, ‘Are you sure the law will not take all properties from Jeremy. It was originally his you know.’ ‘Well Peter and I know they are giving the land to us. Here is their card, you can Phone them if wish.’ ‘Oh no, it is OK so long as you are sure.’ ‘Yes we are’ announced Peter. ‘Wow! So this whole area is ours?’ ‘Yes.’ Jack went on saying, ‘Wow and via your money we have started our Kingdom.’ Peter and Gillian looked at Jack and all laughed.
–

Gillian’s Cave Surprise.
… Shortly after that they started hiking again and could see their destination just beyond the next dip. The fellows came to an area where the snow was packed and the walking was so much better. Jack uttered, ‘If only the way was as easy, as this is to trod.’ He paused and looked at Peter. He questioned, ‘Why would this area here be like this?’ Gillian snickered and looked back at the two standing in wonderment. He said ‘I know that answer. This is not a natural phenomenon.’ Peter puzzled then suddenly uttered, ‘A helicopter landing!’ Gillian was surprised and agreed ‘Yes, good guess.’ He went on with, ‘This is the place the copter lands to get filled with gem rocks to be taken to civilization. I got a copter to take 10 trips into a town last time. This is how I got the money. This outfit gave me the best price and I will always go there if I continue to be this fortunate.’ Then Gillian ushered ‘Come this way.’
… So about 3 yards away was a cave entrance. Before they entered Gillian asked, ‘Now do you promise you will not say a word?’ ‘Sure-sure’ answered other two. So they entered this rather large cave with difficulty, for the entrance was a twisted S shape. This was better and Gillian explained, ‘I did not blast this area for it was disguised as rock surface only. A good camouflage.
… Well they entered and saw mounds of chipped away rock. Gillian spoke, ‘Everyone grab a piece and bring it outside.’ So they proceeded and as they got outside the two of Peter and Jack expounded many verbal sayings. The dull looking brownish colored jagged rocks were afire with multicolored brilliance. Well our two just looked at Gillian in silence.
… Then Jack asked, ‘Is this what you have been doing all this time?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Well what about the stuff you brought into camp? It is coal and other off stuff, not worth much?’ Gillian answered, ‘Yes.’ Jack uttered, ‘Why?’ Gillian explained, ‘If you or others had known what I was doing, I would have had company and maybe some swiping also. Do you think?’ ‘I guess so’ answered Jack. Gillian went on with, ‘Besides, I wanted this to be a secret so to lift you people out of the negatives.’ He went on with, ‘You have been very down at times.’ ‘Yes’ agreed Jack, ‘But we are much better now.’ ‘OK’ replied Gillian, ‘Now I ask you if you could help me mine this stuff?’ Peter and Jack answered in unison ‘Oh for sure.’ ‘Oh definitely no problem.’ He stated, ‘It is hard work and I have 4 picks here. The copter drivers brought these when they came to get the 10th load. The copter has to be packed to be economical, otherwise it costs far too much to cart them to civilization.’ ‘Oh I bet!’ replied Peter. … Peter then said, ‘I will use my copter as well!’ Gillian replied ‘Well no, I would hesitate, for you take wounded or sick people with your bird. This rock would rough up the inside of your copter so would not look nice.’ ‘Oh I guess so’ agreed Peter. Gillian said ‘No, it is fine if you can help pick and chip the rock away. It is fairly soft rock but hard work.’ ‘We will be fine’ spoke Jack, ‘After all, for our kingdom I would do almost anything.’
… Gillian uttered, ‘Well that is good, for next week we need to get much chipped away so the copter can come for another few loads. I need more money for another area that you two do not know of. Since I have scouted these mountains regularly, I know what land is Jeremy’s and what belongs to others. The Valley called Jade’s Valley belongs to Jade’s Son and Daughter. I have met them also. They are good people.’
… Just then a cougar came right near them but it was just wandering its territory. Even so this alerted them all. As the cougar went by, Gillian consoled, ‘Not to worry, it is not looking for food. Being a cougar they rarely attack humans. Rabbits are easier pray and being summer it has lots to eat.’ Jack uttered as watching this cat intently, ‘That is good!’
… They paused for a few minutes watching the cougar leaving, then Gillian explained, ‘Jeremy’s land continues down these slopes into an area that is adjacent to Jade’s Valley. We will have to name it and stake boundaries so it is not mistakenly used as Jade’s Valley in future. All land about is becoming populated, for the people as you know, are frantically leaving the larger continents cause of the type of governments invading our section of this planet. I wish in my heart to be able to do something about that.’
..As Gillian uttered this he looked seriously toward Jack and Peter as if asking what to do? Jack and Peter turned to each other and said nothing. Gillian replied, ‘I guess that is out of the question. But it irks me to see all those people in regimented lives. If they go to war all people have to participate. They cant go out after 9 PM, they cant eat meat every day for only given rations. If they can grow their own veggies they have enough but otherwise they are only given enough for three people. It is like war time but there is no war! The government is hording moneys and other goods so as to go to war and win other lands for their names. Its like in barbarian times again.’
… Gillian suddenly realized he was spewing on and turned to see Jack and Peter just sitting there in wonderment. He apologized and explained, ‘I have been under a regime as thus. That is why I have resentment. Sorry about that, I will keep it down to a simmer.’ Peter replied, ‘No you have to vent what is troubling you sometimes. We all do, or it will overtake us. So long as you see to control, you are normal Sir. That is fine.’ ‘Its Good’ agreed Jack, ‘it is just that we have never heard you complain of anything before. You are rather new here but a welcomed presence.’
… ‘Gracious’ uttered Peter, ‘look what you have done for us with this endeavor. That is god sent. So if you sound off with what is bothering you, we would like to offer help. But I myself have never thought of attacking government. That is way beyond my control. I being a park ranger am involved with government closely also. I would not wish to break my ties.’ ‘Yes I understand’ replied Gillian. ‘I am sorry.’ Then he wandered off to be alone.
–
… Peter and Jack went back into the cave mainly to put their rocks back, but as they entered this time They heard a sound. ‘Come’ whispered Jack, ‘let’s see what is happening here. Maybe Gillian has more secrets not told.’ They wandered a bit into this cave more, and the passage got narrow. They had to crouch down and crawl at one point. But Jack kept going for he was curious of this sound.
… On the other hand, Peter was a bit nervous for did not want to run into a cougar or the likes. But as they went it was getting warmer cause the air was trapped within. Then the small tunnel opened up suddenly to a great inner cavern. The sound was a large waterfall and there were many bats there. The area was also lit, for the water fall was coming into this cavern from outside.
–

Phantoms of the Plateau.
… Then in the mist of this water fall they saw something. It was a spook literally. It scared them both as they crouched down and watched. Then came three spooks but they did not look nasty, in fact they looked like nice persons. They showed Peter a spinning wheel like on the back of a boat. He thought of a water system but knew Gillian was already on that. On the other hand, Jack saw a water slide. A wide one with a boat floating down it. Or something, he was not sure. They snapped themselves out of that and did not say a word. Jack said ‘Oh it is just a nice water fall is all. Well we will have to remember this for a cooling area, in the hot summer times.’ Then Peter uttered ‘Gracious, we better get back. Gillian will wonder where we went.’
–
… They found their way out and sure enough Gillian was beginning to panic, for he lost his two friends. He saw them and blurted out, ‘Oh thank god you are OK. Did you meet the cougar?’ ‘No, we just went into the cave again. Did you know there is a waterfall inside there.’ Gillian answered ‘NO, where? Oh you keep going till tunnel is very small, but it is kind of scary there. We were just curious.’
… Gillian did not say much for felt it was his fault for leaving them as he did. He uttered, ‘Bewitched! Let’s get back to copter for it is getting later in afternoon. It will get cold here at nights.’ They all agreed and started to hike back to copter. On the way Jack and Peter said ‘We need to go for some food now. Will you be staying for dinner?’ ‘I’m Pleased’ answered Gillian, ‘but don’t you have to take this copter back before dark?’ ‘Yes I should but I want dinner with the gang. My wife will understand.’ Peter got out his phone as saying, ‘Please could you phone her Jack.’ So again Jack was Peters receptionist.
… Thus, they ended up at Ice Burg Plateau and all welcomed them with much food. On the way Gillian apologized for his behavior about governments. But when they got to Burg Plateau all was forgotten, for there was good food there this time, and plenty was had. The beginning of Harvest Season was coming next week so all felt they should finish up the old before the new would come in. All obliged greatly and many sat eating in the next few weeks. Often at this time they had as good a time as any party in past.
… There were some strangers there also but always with the copters flying often, others would enter our area out of interest in a new beginnings. Peter noted one he saw just the other day in fact, and he commented to Jack how this fellow seems to appear wherever they go. Jack glanced and agreed ‘Yes, it looks like an extra guard in that dress. He is Good, I have talked to him. His name is Tomson I believe.’ ‘Swell’ replied Peter, ‘I guess it may be an extra for the lawyers sake.

–

Chapter 0 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

Weak Rocks Becoming Canned.
… Back in the New Village, time went on and the village of Gillian’s was coming along. But there became a problem. They found that the rock, where they would have burrowed for the water system was crumbling away as the machines dug at it. It was the same as the mountain on Phantom Plateau. This is why Gillian could work with nobody else there, cause the rocks were quite soft.
… Then one early morn, Three of Gillian’s workers came to him as he was sitting on the porch, of what would be his new house in this small village. Gillian saw them coming but they greeted him with solemn faces. They were not sure how he would react, for they have built his Village and did not think there would be a problem. By rights they were anxious, for they should have checked all aspects before building. This is what a good company would have done.
… Gillian said ‘Well, speak up, what is bothering you?’ ‘Well sir spoke Mark, ‘we do not want you to get upset. We have found a problem with the water system you wished us to put in. The rock is not strong enough. Is there another mountain or area we could place this system in?’ Gillian uttered ‘Bewitched! What is wrong with the rocks?’ Charles cautiously replied, ‘They crumble away and there is no support to hold the piping.’
… Gillian looked away then replied ‘Leave me for now. I have to figure out what to do. He thought out loud saying, ‘This is bad! I put all that money out and now it does not work. How could this be?’ Then Charles announced ‘We will do all we can sir. There will be no charge either. It is our fault sir. Likewise agreed Mark, ‘We will find a way.’ And they wandered off quietly.
… So after a couple of days, the many men about were not working on anything. Their plans were stumped and more building would only put more money down the drain. Gillian came to them two days later and announced, ‘I will have to dismiss you people. I have put enough money into this project now, without putting more in.’ The leader replied, ‘No we will put in the money sir.’ ‘Well’ continued Gillian, ‘It is no good to put more money in, when there is not a working plan.’ ‘Yes sir. We will go if you wish. We will figure it out while away sir. Sorry.’ And the guys found their own way out.
… Gillian was so beside himself that he had forgot it was he who brought the guys to this plateau. But it was late summer and the days were warm. They had already done wrong and did not wish to aggravate the situation. They will find their way home.
–

Gillian’s Workers on the Prowl .
… As the group of about 15 men left in a close-knit group, they talked amongst themselves. They remembered another copter owner that was living near here. They also knew the general layout of the land as coming into this area, but by now it was vague. So they headed southwest and walked along sometimes steep terrain. There was a path of sorts and it was traveled by humans, for once in a long while there would be a wrapper or something of human nature. So this kept them going on this route.
… After a day’s traveling, they were tired and thirsty most. Hunger pains were coming and grumpiness was taking over. A couple of these workers had wild food sense, but most plants were frozen in these higher altitudes, or did not grow there? They came around to a bit of a dip in the land and found a small sort of lake. It was not the best water but there was snow near and they ate the snow to quench their thirst. Mark spoke to lead saying, ‘We must be getting higher for there to be snow here? After all it is early Autumn.’ Charles uttered nothing as they went around another curve.
… Suddenly Lead Charles spoke, ‘There!’ and there was a building before them. But when investigated, nobody was home, for it was all locked up. So on they trod, slowly through this cool unknown wilderness.
–

A Drunken Ordeal.
… Then after a time, there were fewer trees and off to one side within this mountain slope, there was another cave. They went, but with less ambition. Well, they could not get in. Again, it was obviously human kept, for there were double glass doors there. By this time they were very hungry and kept eating snow. This did not do much for their energy, and they were beginning to teeter about.
… They came up another hill which they did not want to go, for it meant colder weather. But then they were elated, for there before them were several buildings and a square made of garden boxes, with a larger tree in the center. It had bits of tensile on it but it was dead.
… At this point these 15 men did not care. One fell and was actually crying. They were not in good condition for not used to this roughing it.
(They were from a large city and were out Gillian’s way via copter to build. Gillian was able to keep them fed, but they did not travel like they have in the last two days. So they were all a sight to behold. But there they were all sitting on the edges of these planters in the dirt and mud about. It had just rained as it did often in this higher climate, so they looked as if they fell in mud, to boot.)
–
… They spend some time resting in the cold and before they knew it the daylight came. It was later morning when they started looking around, the folk of this area were not up yet. But in a few minutes George came out of the first Solarium, for he was chatting with the maintenance there, actually asking what they wished for breakfast. Our Ice Burg Plateau was getting into a routine, and it was friendlier than before.
… As George came out in his blue suit and hat to match, he saw all these strangers lulling about the gardens in Central Square. He shouted, ‘Hey, do not ruin our flower gardens People.’ Well the guys of course all looked up. One came staggering out of Central Square and muttered, ‘Can you spare a dime?’ George angered, spoke in a loud voice saying, ‘We do not feed the drunken people here! Go find your booze elsewhere please!’
… The guy stopped and looked demoralized as Rose came out of the Meeting Hall near. She had heard the hollering and came to see what was happening. She called to George ‘What is going on here?’ Another of these workers stumbled toward Rose saying, ‘Please could you help us.’ But George uttered ‘You stay away from that lady. We do not feed drunks.’ Rose heard this one and asked, as putting her hand up toward George, ‘What is wrong with you?’ ‘Oh thank you for listening. We have been traveling for two days. We are not used to this. The guy we worked for sent us away. Please, we are so weak with hunger we cannot manage to…
… Rose stopped him and replied ‘Oh, Sure, I will bring you out stuff. Wait in the garden!’ She looked at George who was coming closer and she blurted out, ‘They are starving is all. That is why they look drunk. Come help us make sandwiches for them.’ George replied quietly as going to help her. ‘Are you sure?’ ‘Yes I am!’
… So George Anna and Rose hurried and made 15 sandwiches. And when they came out the guys were crowded around the front doors. George commanded, ‘Please let us out or most will not get food!’ So they did stand back. Then Rose instructed ‘Men, go back to the garden and sit on the planters there. Unless you want to sit in the mud here!’ So Rose handed sandwiches to the hands that were outstretched her way.
… Obviously these people were starving. She felt kind of sorry and went in to George who was making coffee by the gallon. They got paper cups and filled a large pot with hot coffee. George went out and gave each one a cup and filled it to the brim, as he apologized to every one of them. They still thanked him very much for the coffee, and enjoyed every drop. And as they were settling, in the Hall our three were making another round of sandwiches for these 15 men.
… It was at this time that Jack came in for breakfast. He asked as entering Meeting Hall, ‘Who are those people out there?’ Rose replied ‘They are starving workers. Their boss sent them away and they have been trying to find a place to go, I guess. We have fed them and are making more now.’ ‘In a jam!’ uttered Jack. ‘That was not nice of the boss. I should go talk to them.’ Rose agreed ‘Tally Ho! You can give them their second sandwich but tell them this is all we can afford. Tell them we have to eat breakfast also.’ ‘Good-Good!’ replied Jack, and off he went with a picnic basket full of sandwiches.
… He got out there and the men had smiles now. They thanked him much and took another sandwich to gobble it down. Jack had brought out another gallon of coffee as well and set it on one of the planters. He said ‘Any of you can have more coffee.’ He watched them for a bit then asked, ‘Which one of you is lead hand here?’ … ‘Oh, that would be me sir.’
… Jack went to this one and greeted ‘Hi, can I talk to you.’ This guy uttered, ‘Good to see you!’ Jack said, ‘Come on in please.’ As they walked on, Jack said, ‘Tell them to stay there OK?’ So Lead turned and commanded thus. Jack took this guy called Charles into the eating hall. They sat him down as Jack’s breakfast became ready. So Jack ate as talking to this one.
… Jack asked, ‘Who is this boss of yours, and did he really tell you to get lost?’ Charles replied, ‘Well he did not say it that way. We were building for him but we made a mistake. He dismissed us for he has no money to build further, especially with us building for him and not being able to finish. The water system is not going to work there, I’m afraid. We do not blame him but he was in such a state, that he forgot he had given us a ride there by copter.
… Jack became very alert and asked ‘Was his name, Peter?’ ‘No’ answered Charles, its Gillian.’ Jack opened his eyes wide and uttered loudly, ‘Gillian, why would he do that?’ Charles explained ‘Well he was very upset sir.’ ‘But even so!’ replied Jack, ‘We know him well. You must be the persons whom were building the small village down in the valley there.’ ‘Yes, but the water system will not work and we see no way to alleviate that problem, so after a day or so he told us solemnly, that he was going to have to let us go. He did not really kick us out, so do not be mad at him. It is the circumstances is all.’
… Jack said ‘Well that is very Noble of you sir. I would be spitting rocks if my boss forgot to give me a ride out of an area that was very difficult to travel. I will phone him.’ ‘No Sir!’ blurted Charles. ‘He is in a bad way.’ ‘How’ asked Jack?’ ‘He was depressed much. It was like we wounded him badly sir.’ ‘Really … Well wait here.’
… Jack went outside to where George was talking to some of the other guys there. He took George aside and announced, ‘We have to do something. Gillian is in troubles and very depressed. We can phone him but we must have a plan. Did the people here tell you what happened.’ ‘Yes’ uttered George. ‘It is a bad situation. Why don’t you phone Peter, he has the helicopter.’ ‘Oh yes, that’s the answer. … We must get to Gillian for he may be in trouble. The making of that kingdom was his whole life, and now it will not work? That is a big blow and we have to go there. You get ready and I will phone Peter now. We will take Charles with us. We must iron this over.
… Jack went on with, ‘You go tell the people here to cool their heals, that we are going to try to fix their situation.’ George asked, ‘OK but how?’ ‘Not to worry!’ answered Jack, as he remembered his vision, ‘I will tell you later.’
–

Disappearance of Gillian.
… So off went George a few yards, to settle the workers down, while Jack got his phone and called Peter. He asked ‘Pete could you bring that copter of yours to Ice Burg as soon as possible. We have a problem here that you and I can solve. Be quick though, it is Gillian in trouble Sir.’ ‘Oh, In a Pickle! I’m on my way.’ blurted out Peter. ‘Thanks.’ and Jack hung up.
… Jack hurried out to Charles and said, ‘If you wish you can bring one of your fellows. We are going to go to Gillian and talk with him. We have a way to solve the problems of water. You will hear this as we tell Gillian, OK?’ ‘Good to hear.’ was answer.
… So as Jack stood there watching the Eagles soaring above looking for their meal of the day, Charles went up to Mark and told what was happening. Helper Mark was happy to come. He came to Jack and told, ‘I felt sorry for the fellow for likewise, I would have been devastated too.’ Yes’ replied Jack, ‘We found a way to correct the water problem, but there is no need to speak of it at this time. All will work out.’ ‘Pleased!’ replied Charles, ‘we will work with him for free. We told him that but he was too upset. We sort of had to leave.’
… Well after a while, Peter did come and Jack Charles and Mark loaded onto copter. They went straight to the Phantom Plateau and tried to land on the packed space that Peter noted. It was tough but with some sliding Ranger Pete did manage. They quickly got out but no Gillian. The workers said ‘He may be down at the new Village.’ So, they piled into the copter again and made a quick 10 minute ride to the lower village. They piled out but no Gillian. They stood therein this early autumn, a cold wind blew by and fear came to Jack. The comments were of the serious tone. ‘Could he have? Where would he get the rope?’
… They calmed down a bit and settled. There was no point to get out and search for him. There are miles of woods, here in the lower flats. Peter announced, ‘Come let’s go into the cavern again and check out area, to discuss if it be feasible.’ ‘Good!’ agreed Jack. He turned to lead and said ‘Charles, we will rely upon your know how to tell us if you can rig this up for us. We will show you what we have in mind. Come.’ So again they all piled into copter but at lease it is not overflowing for only 4 persons present.
… They got to the cavern and Peter made a better landing this time. They started to walk towards the cavern but the two workers hesitated. They could not see where this cavern was for the S at the entrance. Jack looked back and called, ‘Come on people, it is OK. We will show you our plans.’ They hurried to catch up and all went into the S then down into the tunnel.
… Sure enough it was not a dream. There was the water fall and the lake-effect it left on the floor of this cavern. Jack and Peter discussed both their ideas (of what they saw when the spooks were there.) They did not say this allowed for most would figure they were bonkers. The answers these men gave were, ‘If the flooring of this cavern was solid rock, it was a go.’ Peter asked ‘How would you tell?’ Charles instructed, ‘We need to wade out into this water and test the rock by a pick or something that will smash rock. Then by the ease of the smashing we will tell how solid it is.’ Jack spoke ‘Oh that is a cinch, just wait here.’ Jack ran back to entrance of cave to retrieve one of the 4 picks which were lying about there.
… When Charles was handed the pick he gave it to Mark who asked, ‘Who me?’ ‘For pity sakes Yes, go out and check the rock. Here I have some rope.’ And Charles did indeed have a spin of rope in his satchel about his neck.
… So Charles helped Mark tie rope about waist and out went Mark. The three on shore watched Mark take a few swings and certainly heard it. It was very loud and echoed throughout the cavern. Then Mark told ‘Yes, it is as solid as I have ever seen.’ ‘Hullabaloo!’ uttered Charles. ‘Come back now.’ So Mark did.
… As he did Charles and Peter were discussing how big this spinning wheel should be. Charles was saying, ‘The bigger it is the higher it has to sit in the water so the harder the rock will work to hold it up.’ Peter replied, ‘Well it is up to you, does the size have much bearing on the amount of power it produces?’ Charles agreed, ‘Yes a bit. But as the generator is fully charged the wheel does not have much use if spinning. So if it is smaller, it will just be using the electrical current on a continuous cycle. Charles went on with, ‘That is OK, it only uses the wheel and electrical components more. But with regular checkups it should not be a problem. We could check that ourselves if Gillian wished.’
… As the 4 all gathered, they went out into the light. The copter was still waiting for them. But they may be waiting a long time for Gillian. He could be off again for days. Or it could be a sign of something worse. Nobody knows what to do. Suddenly Peter said ‘Oh, I have a horn in my copter. That may get him here?’ and Peter went running to copter. In 5 he was back near entrance and blew the horn several times. There was no answer and they decided to sit it out near the copter, for an hour or so.
–

Distant Whisper .
… In another area was Gillian. He heard the horn quietly but knew it was a horn calling him. He was not in too bad a way for had settled down. He thought, there must be a way around this flimsy rock. Maybe they have some kind of glue that would pack it solid together.
… At this point he happened to be further down the slope checking out the site he wished to build at, next. But he had never been on that plateau, he could just see it from a distance, and it looked very green indeed. Today he decided to entertain himself and go walk on this plateau.
… Well there is a problem, for its shear cliffs. A mountain climber would have to be aware and Gillian is no mountain climber. He was a bit taken back of this but he’s in a figuring mood and feels there must be an answer. He sat there resting after trying to climb down the cliff, but now he has given up.
… He thought maybe he should try to find who just blew that horn. Maybe they would have an answer to this problem. Then he wondered if the workers came back for some reason. He was sorry to let them go. Then he suddenly thought, Oh My, I was the one who took them here via copter. I sent them away without a ride. Oh wow! Why did I do that? Oh my, they probably hate me now. I wonder if it is them blowing that horn? He jumped up and said out loud, ‘I have to go see. Its not that far!’ So he grabbed his jacket and off he went.
… He traveled with speed for was sorry and wanted to apologize, so he was there in no time. He came over the crest of the hill puffing away, then he saw Peter with his copter and his workers. He was relieved much and uttered loudly as hurrying toward them, ‘Hi, are you waiting for me?’ The 4 jumped up and Gillian came right to the workers and apologized, ‘I am sorry, I should not have spoken like that. I lost my head is all. What are you all doing here?’
… Peter announced, ‘We found a solution to your water problem.’ ‘What?’ screeched Gillian, ‘How?’ Peter queried, ‘Well, you know why you came here in the first place and of the history of this place. So I will tell you, it is true.’ ‘What?’ questioned Gillian. ‘What are you talking about?’ ‘It was spooks that gave me this sighting.’
… With that comment, Peter composed himself and continued, ‘Call me strange or whatever you wish, but without that sighting I would not have an answer. They showed me a paddle wheel like on a boat. And it is that wheel, that will save this plan.’ Charles agreed, ‘Yes we have tried it out also. We will build the wheel on the floor of the cavern where the waterfall is.’ Gillian remembered, ‘Oh You told me something about a waterfall.’ ‘Yes’ said Jack. ‘Shall we give it another try people?’ Gillian agreed, ‘Yep!, if you think! but I have come across another problem which may be unsolvable. The next site I wish to build, was to be on a plateau below the 4th solarium, but having not been there I did not know of this problem till today. I went there or tried to. The cliffs are so sheer that nobody could get down to this plateau, let a lone equipment getting there. I’m afraid it is a no go people. Sorry.’
… Now Jack’s mind was going a mile per minute. He saw the water fall and what he envisioned as a water slide. This would get equipment down but how was it made. He remembered in his vision a boat going down the waterfall as well but the only water that is falling is the actual waterfall in that cave, but it is up the hill a ways on another mountain of Phantom Plateau. If there were only some way to get water nearer the cliffs of this new site? Then Jack spoke aloud. ‘Winds of Fortune! I may have the answer (Via the spooks, I may add).
… Gillian was in shock, ‘No way! It would take a miracle to fix that.’ Jack replied, ‘Well it will take some figuring but I saw this as a picture where the spooks were, and it was at same time Peter saw his vision. I have not figured it out exactly but the water will run down those sheer cliffs and with a kind of raft to take that water fall, we can float all down the cliffs.’ Gillian uttered ‘Interesting! But how do we get there day by day. I do not think it will work.’ Jack replied, ‘Well I will not give up. Sorry! I will find a way.’
… So Peter and Jack got Gillian and the workers settled here again. They told them to keep the peace and we will figure all out. Peter told, ‘We have put a lot of effort, into this project, all of us, and a little water in the wrong place is not going to stop us, Right?’ Well, all agreed.
… Peter took Jack home again and talked all along the way. Jack was figuring a mile a minute. He Uttered ‘Say, if the water fall could fall over those sheer cliffs, how would a boat manage to float down the cliff?’ Peter asked. ‘What kind of boat?’ Jack questioned, ‘I’m not sure, it was vague.’ Pete replied ‘Well a rubber raft would stay afloat much easier with heavy stuff on it. It may tip over easier but it would certainly get heavy equipment down in a hurry.’
… Jack just looked puzzled. Peter questioned, ‘I’m not sure. All we can do is go there and check things out again.’ Jack replied, ‘No, you have driven that helicopter too much for us. You are not even a part of this package. Although we would certainly include you in our Cities and acreage. No, You go home and relax for a few days and if there is a problem I will call you!’ ‘Sure’ agreed Peter, ‘I need a rest after today thanks. Ha-Ha!’ Peter then uttered, ‘Look smart and hang on, here we go.’
… Peter landed the helicopter only long enough for Jack to clear it and the rest of Gillian’s workers to board, then Peter took off to Gillian’s Village again before going home himself. After seeing the copter off, Jack went in to eat and figure things out with the others there.

–

Chapter 10 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

… Later Jack called a meeting to the Meeting Hall and Anna came to make goodies. All arrived shortly after. Jack seated all and uttered, ‘Thank you for coming people, I have a problem. We need to make a way down into a plateau that is very steep. There has to be machinery lowered there for the construction of a village. We would need water also. … Anyone have any solutions?’ There was no answer.
… Then Jack thought as he put up his hand. He uttered, ‘Nobody has been to the bottom of that valley, not even Gillian.’ All the men were listening intently to Jack at this point, but they knew he was thinking aloud, so they waited.
… Jack went on with, ‘Gillian has eyed the place from afar only. If there is a lake there I may have a solution.’ He got his cell and called Peter, ‘Hi Pete I’m sorry to bother you.’ Pete replied ‘No that is OK, what is on your mind.’ Jack asked ‘Have you ever traveled over the area Gillian is talking of? Peter waited.
… Jack went on, ‘I just had a thought of, if there is a lake there we could construct with wood, a ramp with rollers, and get a small boat to hold machinery and other items. Then have the boat slide down into the water but have a restraining rope, for a smooth landing, to keep it afloat. Would you think that OK?’
… Peter replied ‘Well it sounds interesting. You would have your water and the way to get down, but would they take this several times a day to get to their homes?’ Jack uttered ‘hmm… Well I had the idea of tunneling into cliffs at ground level of plateau.’ Peter stunned replied, ‘You realize how long that would take?’ Jack said ‘Well Gillian has a machine in that area now. Remember how he talked of tunneling, but rock was crumbling away. It would not take too long with the machine.’
… Jack paused and looked at the men about him at the table in the Meeting Hall. Then he asked ‘And what if it took 6 months, I’m sure Gillian would not mind.’ ‘Till the Morrow’ replied Peter. ‘It is up to you and Gillian. If you need a ride I can drop by in the morning.’ ‘How fortunate!’ replied Jack, ‘if that is OK with you.’ ‘In a pickle’ uttered Peter, ‘But next time, use Jeremy’s friend.’ ‘Good-good Peter, sorry for bothering you again Sir. See you tomorrow, and thanks.’
… Jack got off phone and thought as the men were all there waiting the outcome. Jack uttered, ‘Sorry people. I should have waited till my mind was cleared.’ Just them Anna came with goodies. George replied, ‘Not to worry Jack, it gives us a chance to have a goody or two, thanks to Anna here.’ George turned to Anna after taking a mouthful, and exclaimed, ‘You sure know your pastry, Anna. Thanks for being here.’ Anna laughed. ‘Oh I get good out of it too. My family does not know where I am, and I like that for a while. Family can be a headache.’ Then Anna left for a bit while the men discussed the situation.
… They got into better talk and before you knew it, Anna and Rose were making dinner as the men still talked around table. (Our two main ladies can work together now for the children are older. Like Marsha was 9 when first came here and she is now 16 soon to be 17 years. She and another girl take turns caring for the other children of 4, one being a baby boy Tommy. I am sure that once Gillian has a Village set up with all amenities, many more will be coming also.)
Times are a-prospering in these Silver Ridge Plateaus.
–

The Rescue Mission .
… So the next day Peter came by with helicopter and the whole gang of George Frank Berty Andy and Papa, along with Jack, Piled into the copter which was a full load. Peter replied, ‘Alright, the Ride is 10 dollars apiece.’ They all laughed, as Jack said ‘Yes you will get paid sir! You will become one of our lifelines. Remember that Sir!’ ‘Yes,’ uttered Peter, ‘I am nervous sometimes for I am on call. Like now, I cannot open the door and say, Everybody out. I have an emergency call.’
… Berty agreed, “Oh yes, that would be a stickler all right. Well we will have to go get a copter for ourselves and Gillian can be our Driver.’ Jack and Peter agreed and Peter spoke, ‘I will even put in my share too. In that way it will assure you to get your own and I can be left in Peace.’ They all laughed again as they took off into the horizon for Yet another plateau. What name will the gang give this one? Time will tell.
–
… As they propelled themselves to the area, they flew over the new village and saw people out on the ground waving them. But they kept going. Peter may land thereafter, if Gillian is there. Peter flew straight to the plateau in question, and there it was. Very much in wilderness. They could not see the bottom of the valley for too many trees there. Peter and Jack commented back and forth. As the others listened as sitting on the back floor of copter. Not a comfy ride but they were there. Peter replied, ‘I have rope in back.’ One of the guys Andy said ‘Charmed, I am using it as a seat, for the floor of the copter here is too cold.’ Jack asked ‘Here, hand it here.’
… Then Berty asked ‘Peter, do you have enough fuel. Not to tell you your business. Its just that I heard this one time, that hovering a copter takes more fuel, is that so?’ Peter replied ‘I have not heard that, but we have lots.’ ‘Heavens’ replied Berty. ‘I’m just being cautious.’ ‘Yes that is alright and thanks.’ Jack uttered ‘OK Pete, I have tied rope to the bar here see?’ ‘Yes’ and it is round my waist and over one shoulder, as This?’ Peter agreed, ‘Yes that is good.’ ‘OK I’m ready!’ announced Jack.
… So as Peter went down to near tree tops, Jack opened door and everyone exclaimed ‘wow’. For the air came in like a hurricane. George and Bertie’s hats went flying and everyone’s hair was askew. Jack replied ‘I am gone,’ as he held the rope tightly so to not bomb down. You may get a bit of rope burn but it is only about 10 feet of rope so will be fine. It depends on how sharp or abrupt you wish to stop your decent.
… Well he got down and the whole helicopter shook a bit. Being a small craft it feels the difference more acutely. He was hanging there in air and had his phone with Peter on line. Jack instructed, ‘Move more to the left. Yes right there! Now can you go down a few feet more?’ ‘Yes’ replied Peter, ‘like that?’ ‘Oh perfect, there is water here but it is black water? What would that mean?’ Peter thought then felt, ‘It could be stale water, which is not good. But it could be minerals within as well. This place has much volcanic rock as with Phantom Plateau.’
… Pete ended up saying, I’m not sure though. Do you have a container to collect some water?’ Jack replied ‘No.’ Pete said, ‘ Wait a minute, are you OK.’ ‘Yes’ uttered Jack. Pete asked the people on the copter, ‘There is a small square black handbag there somewhere. Berty shrieked ‘Oh I have it.’ Peter went on saying, ‘Now hook it to the green rope to send it down to Jack please.’ That was complete and Jack came on phone saying, ‘Good, thanks.’
… After a minute Jack went on with, ‘We need to go down maybe 5 feet more. Is that possible?’ ‘Yes’ and Peter adjusted the copter again. ‘Oh Lord!, Enough, whoops!’ ‘Sorry’ uttered Peter, ‘Are you OK?’ ‘Yes just pull me up please.’ So the gang in back, all pulled Jack up and he managed to get into copter, but his legs were drenched. Peter uttered ‘Sorry Jack.’ Jack replied quietly, ‘Not to worry, at least we have the sample here. Its back home now, I guess’ replied Jack as looking to Peter.
–
… As driving the copter back Peter asked, ‘Do you want to go somewhere now and get that tested? I have time Sir.’ ‘Oh fortunate’ replied Jack, ‘that would save some time for sure.’ Ranger Pete said ‘Gracious, we will go straight there now. Or does anyone wish to be dropped off?’ No, they all wanted to know the outcomes so off they went.
… Thus Peter flew to an industrial area where he remembered was a copter landing. As they landed Berty saw a chemical building on a hill adjacent and spoke up. They got out of copter and this little flat jeep type truck, came toward them. Peter met this truck and paid for the parking of. Our men paused a moment as the trucker put a strong bar on the front wheel of our small copter and shunted it into an area for safe parking. Once Peter saw it was safe, he took the ticket he had received for payment and put it in his jacket pocket, then they were off to venture this world.
… Pete asked ‘Where did you see that chemical building, Berty?’ ‘Heavens!’ as Berty looked about. ‘There it is sir!’ ‘Glorious, let’s go people.’ They did find it and walked the long path to the entrance. It was not a public place to trod but they went anyway. They were met by one at front door, Like a guard of sorts. He asked, ‘What they were doing here?’ Peter explained, ‘We are opening up some land in the hills a few miles away and we would like this water sample tested for impurities.’
… The guard was kind of interested for their normal routine was testing for impurities for gas and oil companies of area. Guy smiled and uttered, ‘A new land hey, maybe I’ll come there some time.’ He ushered them in as asking Peter, ‘Where is this land, is there resorts there?’ Peter smiled, ‘We have just started to open the place, … but see the mountains there,’ as he pointed to the north. ‘Oh, I have been in that area. Do you know Jade’s Valley?’ Berty exclaimed ‘Yes, we visited there a few months ago.’ Guard said ‘Swell place hey?’ ‘Like our ship has come in!’ replied Berty.
… Guard ushered them toward a waiting room. He announced, ‘I will let others know you are here. Just hang tight, thanks.’ It was an hour later and our people were getting antsy. Then a lady came out and asked, ‘Follow me please.’
… They wandered behind this lady down a long hall with many rooms. Some very big rooms with large machinery. They wondered where they would end up. Then lady turned into a door and others followed. It was a small meeting room. Our group told their story and she took the sample saying, ‘Come back tomorrow please. We will analyze it for you.’ ‘Swell’ replied Pete and they retraced their steps through the long hallway and out.
… Pete was anxious and said, ‘I will drop you fellows to Ice Burg Plateau then I must be off. I have been away too long now.’ Jack answered ‘Yes, I’m sorry it took so long. We all need to go and eat.’ They smiled and Peter spoke ‘Well tomorrow we find out if we have a new plateau to name.’
… As they spend maybe 20 minutes in flight Peter asked, ‘What would be a good name?’ George in back replied, Emerald Plateau, Frank said, Black lagoon and Jack uttered ‘Hidden Valley Plateau.’ Peter exclaimed ‘Oh that is interesting. I like that one.” Berty announced from back seat, ‘Well it may be Gillian who should name it. He is the one putting all the moneys out for these areas. Does that mean he owns them Jack?’ Peter agreed ‘Well that is a thought. What would you say Frank?’ Frank thought then commented, ‘Well No. Land still belongs to owners regardless of what another does to it. Gillian is like a store keeper, he can care for areas but he is only caring and giving a face lift. That is all I can say.’ Jack agreed ‘Yes that is a good explanation, Sir Frank.’
… Jack then announced ‘Good-good, gentlemen, we are coming home here.’ Peter agreed, ‘Yes Look smart and hang on, and see you all again.’ They landed and all piled out. Jack stayed at front door and replied, ‘Till the Morrow then?’ Pete was hesitant so Jack agreed ‘I will get another.’ ‘Yes,’ replied Peter, ‘I am getting tired of this shuffling about. I need a break Jack, thanks. We will surely see you soon, probably at the Winter Games coming up. Let me know if the results of the tests are outstanding.’ Jack smiled and closed door and off went Peter in a whirl wind.

–

Chapter 11 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

Gillian’s Venture to Forbidden Plateau.
… In a few days, back at the newly built village Plateau, Gillian and the workers were stirring again. Gillian announced, ‘I’m not sure what Jack was wishing, but I have left this area to him to supply with water.’ Gillian’s worker Charles told, ‘Well if we stay here another day we will be parched. At least it rained yesterday but that barrel is about empty.’ ‘Yes I know’ spoke Gillian, ‘This is what I wish to talk of. Shall we go to the cave in the mountains or further down the slope here, where there is that other plateau?’ Helper Mark asked, ‘Another one?’ Beside him was another worker called Jape who replied, ‘How many do you want?’ But the other men near were not much interested.
… Gillian turned to Charles and they looked at each for a minute. Lead Charles agreed ‘Lets go down to other plateau, at least I have seen it from a distance. I’m not sure of the mountain cave, do you know where it is?’ ‘No, I agree, we will go down into the Valley more.’ So with that chat they started in mid morning to go towards the new plateau.
… As they did, Gillian called his friend with the two big copters that flew them down into this area in the beginning. He got the lead on phone and copter driver Max agreed ‘Yes we can come for a few hours. What will be our mission this time?’ Gillian instructed, ‘There is a pool of water in the central area of this plateau just down the hills from where you dropped us off. We would like a diver to come and go into that swamp and see how deep it is. If it is a good depth, we will dig it out and try to make it our water source. We are not sure if it is drinkable, but we can filter it if not.’
… Gillian went on with, ‘We need some kind of water source while excavating area.’ ‘A-O-K uttered Max, ‘I will be there in 20 min.’ ‘Good’ replied Gillian, ‘We are on our way. It may take us a bit longer than you but we will see you as you fly.’ ‘OK, carry on. See you in a bit.’ ‘Thanks.’
… Well, our troop went through bush and rocky edges and slid down a couple of very steep hills, but it was good weather today, not like the other day for sure. They went up a hill of grass and flowers and when they got to the top, there was the new area in the distance. As they started down this hill of grass they heard the copter coming. They turned to see and waved copter as it flew over quite low. It carried on and landed on a ridge that nobody could get to, in this new area.
… When Gillian saw this, he phoned again. He explained, ‘We have never been in there before. Does it look as if we could build there?’ Copter driver Max uttered ‘Wait a bit for I am not sure. Let me get out and look around.’ ‘Yep’ agreed Gillian ‘but you be careful!’ ‘Yes not to worry, I have my helper Rondos here with a gun.’ ‘Scheherazade!’ shrieked Gillian. ‘That is fantastic! Yes, if you could snoop about and see how much flat land there is. That would be good. Meanwhile we will carry on coming your way.’ ‘A true Bet!’ answered Max.’
… So Gillian and troop went down to level ground then into a forest. It was deep and they could not see where they were going. They came to a major cliff and wondered if this was the mountain’s side? The thing was, it was crumbling away and there was a lot of moisture coming through the rocky slope.
… Gillian noted this red trunked tree growing up the edge of this cliff. He acknowledged to Charles, ‘If this can be seen for a ways, we can judge if this is on our new mountain.’ Charles replied, ‘You lead the way and I will keep track of the tree.’ ‘Thanks’ spoke Gillian. ‘ He turned to the rest and instructed, ‘Keep coming people we are almost there.’
… They went in another direction to get to the front of this area where Gillian had seen it from a distance. At that point he would look down upon this plateau. But now that they have gone to ground level their view is upward and that makes things look much different.
… They traveled a few yards and Gillian stepped between the rocks there and sunk into this water. It was deep but very narrow, as it ran through these large boulders. It was deceiving for the thick long grasses growing in area, were concealing the fact that it was a small river.
… As Charles was keeping his eyes on the red tree and could still see it, two of the workers lunged and grabbed Gillian’s arms and pulled him back to dry land. Gillian thanked them and told, ‘At least its not quicksand.’ They smiled as Gillian sat to dry out a bit.
… After a few minutes Gillian decided to go on. They went around even farther, and the tree was indeed a part of this new mountain. Gillian said to Charles, ‘I wonder if that river is part of a maintain river. We may find the source in the higher mountain terrain.’ That would be wonderful.’ replied Charles. Gillian agreed ‘Yes, just what we would wish.’
… Then the phone rang. ‘Its Max with news!’ said Gillian to the rest. Max talked to Gillian and explained, ‘We climbed up this rather steep slope for heard something. Well sir, you struck it rich here. We got to the top of that slope, and it is a valley with river and a rather large lake. What looked like a plateau in this rather large mountain, actually becomes a valley within the central mountain area. It is like a volcano went off years ago the left the walls standing sir.’ … Gillian replied ‘That sound great. Could you pick us up?’ ‘Sure where are you?’ ‘We are to the north looking south upon the mountain. There is a hill near us and we will try to climb up onto the clearing. I’m not sure if you can Land at the top, but you will see where we are. You land where you can and we will get to the chopper somehow.’ ‘A-O-K I’m off in a few.’
… Gillian looked to Lead Charles, who nodded. Charles turned to the other helpers and instructed, ‘Please keep up, we are traveling up the hill here.’
… Well, it did not take long for copter to find them and they were in luck, for at the top of this hill the copter had just enough room to land. It was another Hill of grass. ‘Odd formation!’ spoke Lead Charles, as they looked the place over from the higher altitude. ‘It’s like that volcano blew up and much mud and stuff had fallen in heaps. These hills of grass are what was inside the central mountain.
… They agreed and even Max the copter driver agreed. He replied, ‘Maybe the volcano did blow up. If the way is clear they can spew for long bouts, but when that spewing stops then it blows. Maybe this one could not spew and just Blew up!’ ‘Yes’ agreed Charles, ‘there are very few large trees here as well. Only in places as on other side of this mountains.’ Gillian stated, ‘If we get this place underway we need to use these grass hills for gardening. The soil will be very fertile here.’ ‘Yes replied Charles. we should take up farming here.’
… So they did get a ride into the crater and it was quite large. About 2 miles wide and 3-4 miles in length. It was a bit higher than the surrounding land, but the leaking moisture was in fact a small pool seeping through the mountainside, and the river outside will be the other end.
… Archeologist Gillian said, ‘We will blast this to make it a waterfall, but what of the black waters?’ Max replied ‘Well we will have Rondos get into a wetsuit and go down now. It will take an hour, so you go relax for a while. We will Phone you.’ ‘Yeppers’ spoke Gillian. They turned and each went their own way.
… Gillian turned to see some solemn faces, for that is all they have been doing the last few days, is stall about. Gillian called lead Charles and said ‘We must find someplace to sit.’ They looked around and saw a couple of logs. There was a large tall hedge of bramble near, so Gillian replied, ‘Come Charles, let’s get these logs in front of that hedge so we can sit down.’ ‘Hullabaloo!’ uttered Charles. Then Charles looked Mark’s way and asked ‘Come Please help.’
… With that several men came to the fore. As they went toward the logs three yards away 5 men took one log and another three took the other. It looked like a relay system with the men lined up in a row and the long logs traveling smoothly along. They got to the bramble and put them near so this large hedge was a backdrop for protection. As they settled down and relaxed, it gave way to light conversation.
… The trees were large in the distance and more like Christmas trees near them. Evidence of the Volcano eruption those many years ago. But today was a good sunny day with enthusiasm in the air. Some felt a new beginning.
… We look along the logs, lined up in a row. Third person in, is worker Larry talking to another worker called Elroy. Larry was saying, ‘I know how to build with logs simply because, as a boy scout I was introduced to the idea. They had a woodsman come and start a log cabin for the scouts. That was so cool! Then when I was a teen I went into woodwork. Within that time the group went on an excursion where we built a log cabin to stay in for the week. The boy scouts and girl guides are a great way to be introduced to a lot of things in life.’ ‘Yes, I can see that,’ said Elroy.
… In another area upon these logs, Archeologist Gillian was talking to helper Bruce who was saying, ‘I worked in the office world up till 5-years ago. ‘Then with a heart scare I decided to go more natural in life. Thus I am here, hopefully to help create a place I can come to when needed.’ Gillian replied ‘Yes we all need nature sometime. I find it gives back much strength if you visit it.’
… Through the background of conversation all around, Gillian heard his phone. He answered it and it was copter Max. ‘Hi Max, so is it deep enough there, as in 5-6 ft.’ Max announced, ‘That will not be the directive for this situation!’ Gillian asked, ‘What do you mean?’ With that the people about Gillian stopped talking and listened. Copter Max told ‘Hold on to your hat Sir, but the water is not black for any reason, … but that, it is oil Sir!’ Gillian was silent and stunned. So Max went on with, ‘I know you said someone got a sample but if they did not go deep enough it would be blackish water.’ … After another pause came, ‘Are you sure!’ asked Gillian. ‘Yes sir. When Mark came up out of that water, he was dripping oil all about. The gooey stuff that is not refined.’ Gillian uttered, ‘Oh this is great, I think? So what do we do now?’
… Well, when Archeologist Gillian got off that phone, the conversations were of shouts and hysterical attacks. There was much talk of what they were going to do with their piece of this land, that they could now buy outright. Gillian was a bit alarmed for this was his endeavor of opening up this land. Now all these people want to buy pieces of it. Well, they can lease it from me is all, thought Gillian. After a while all settled down.

–

Chapter 12 Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

… Max with copter came back into the fold and they made their way back to the new village. Gillian did not wish to go away from this place now, as nor did the workers. They wished to get this place ready for their living of. So Max and Gillian along with others putting their two cents into the conversation, all took turns of figuring and planning the events of the next few days.
… Max was going to be very busy and Gillian had Charles and his group of workers, transported to the Mines in that hidden cave, so to dig more treasure that would pay Max for his efforts. He would be hauling much stuff to their new village and Gillian along with Charles and Mark will be doing a lot of shopping.
… The plan was to get furniture of an essential type, down to this village to be used right away. Max also had to bring a large container with good water, so our people could drink for the next few weeks. And of course, all the food to go in the fridges and freezers that all had to be bought, brought and flown into the village area. Max will get a string of port-a-potties also. But if Gillian remembered anything else that was needed, Max would be about for several days yet. He has a long hall at this point.
… As things progressed in their Minds, they got a call via horn, to come jump the copter and get a good meal before dark. Max had brought in much food and 6 fridges along with two freezers. A lot of this would go into the meeting hall of this village. Gillian and the men had built this village much like Jeremy’s village in the Ice Berg Plateau. It was as good a plan as any and Gillian got the chance to view it a few times while in the mountains. So all the gang were carted and moved into the village to prepare the mountains of food coming in, as Max and Helper Rondos continued to bring beds and toiletries as needed that night. The rest will come tomorrow.
–

Water At Their Disposal
… So later on in their big hall, they were pretty tired, but all nicely sat down at the table to have a good meal. As things became quieter, suddenly others near the door, heard something. A couple of men went out the door of this hall and screeched in alarm. ‘Gillian-Gillian, look we have our water!’ ‘What!’ asked Gillian, who was still seated at one long table looking towards Max. The thought went through his mind of, How could Max bring more water when he is sitting here?
… With another screech from the men outside, Gillian jumped up and almost dumped his plate, as he rushed to the door. Well, there was a wild river rushing by the front of this hall?
… Gillian went into alarm, for it could have and may still, dig the hall out and sweep it down the hillside. He shouted, ‘Quick, get your shovels, all of you, and dig a trench for the water!’ Suddenly all flew about with some running through the river. It was beautiful water. Crystal clear and very cold. None could figure where this water was coming from, but Gillian was giddy, for thought of the next plateau and the wish for a water fall to float stuff over the cliff.
… Well, he quickly put that thought out of his mind when the group he was in, got to the shed full of tools. They raced back to the water going further upstream, with Gillian’s say so, and all started to dig like crazy. Max announced, ‘I will get a backhoe here.’ And off he went into the air with Mark.
… By the time Max got back, our people on the ground had a small trench dug out, that would do for the moment, but the force of the water was destroying this trench, a bit at a time.
–
… As the copter landed several ran. Max got the wench going and the backhoe was on ground in 5 ready to go. Well it did not matter who rode it, in fact two people jumped the backhoe. So the one who landed in the driver’s seat became the driver. At this point, it did not matter, for nobody of this group wished to see all their hard work of building this beautiful village, go down over the cliffs several yards away.
… The Driver happened to be Mark and off he went. He started at the upstream spot and literally plowed the ground as running along with the river. There was thought of, if it would stall the engine, but it kept going and that was the quickest way to control the water in Mark’s mind. It was probably the best way too, for the river was tamed very quickly.
… Mark went that route 4 times so the trench kept getting deeper. The others were up stream further or downstream closer to the cliffs, making sure water would flow away, especially for the night which was coming their way soon. They worked till dark, then all went into the hall, to have their cold dinner. That did not matter to most, for the excitement of the last few hours would keep everyone awake, far into this night.
… The major question on everyone’s mind was, ‘Where did this water come from and why now?’ As things started settling down, some of the workers from Charles’s group came, with Charles behind them. They approached Gillian and asked if they could talk to him. ‘Yep!’ spoke Gillian, wondering what the heck? The speaker answered, ‘We were working in that cave near the north wall. The rock was crumbling as that whole cave was unstable, but I Sir dug extra hard in one corner, for saw a glittering in the rocks there. I thought I hit the mother load and put more effort into it. But Sir, that was wrong of me and I am sorry.’ Gillian asked ‘Why was that wrong? Scheherazade!…You were doing a good job, I would say?’
… This guy put his head down and stopped talking. Charles said abruptly, ‘Keith, out with it!’ Worker Keith apologized, ‘Well I am sorry for all the work I made for others here. I was the one who created all the water.’ Gillian uttered ‘Bewitching?’ ‘Yes sir, the glittering of what I thought was jewels, was in fact the great outdoors. It was the sky and the trees blowing in the breezes. It glittered like that Sir! So I dislodged the wall of the cave and I guess the water found its way there a bit more at a time. I could go fix it if you wish, but I would need concrete, if you have extra Sir.’
… Gillian spoke ‘Do not worry! … But the concrete is a good idea just the same. We will concrete the trench tomorrow and you will help, understand?’ ‘Sure Sir not a problem.’ and Keith took off. The others stood there including Charles. He uttered, ‘A Pity sir, I should have been keeping a closer watch on them. I did not think that would happen, Sir.’ ‘Yep, no problem’ replied Gillian. ‘We now have a river and that is great. Remember, this could be our water source.’ ‘Yes that is right, but what a Hullabaloo.’ uttered Charles. Gillian answered ‘I’m Pleased thanks. We will work on this tomorrow for sure…’ As all settled down again some had playing cards and other had a ring toss game going.
… Gillian went and sat with Max. He said, ‘I have a plan.’ Max looked with anticipation. Gillian asked ‘You know those very large pipes they sink into subterranean levels, often under roads Sir.’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Could you with your copter, pick up maybe 10 of them tomorrow Sir.’ ‘Sure, it would take the day though.’ ‘Yep,’ spoke Gillian ‘I’m good with that. I wish to make this stream our main water supply for this village.’
… Max said ‘Sounds good to me. I will get on it first thing tomorrow. I will take Keith if you wish sir?’ ‘Charmed, that would be good for him. I am not mad at him, for we were all winging it in this hyper glorious time.’
… Gillian paused, then continued with, ‘What excitement, like starting a brand new life for all involved. I love this kind of work. It must be the adventurer in me, but I would do this for the rest of my life, if I could.’ Max just smiled. Gillian was obliviously having a good high. They settled down shortly after and the night went into day.
–

A Ranger in our midst.
… Well tomorrow came and who should appear over the horizon very early, but Peter with his copter. He brought back Lead Jack and Jeremy’s small team of workers, that were waiting for the testing of the black lagoon water. Apparently there was a mix up and it took longer than all thought. Well, did they have news?
… They landed as Gillian came to the fore. Peter and Jack ran up to Gillian, who was walking towards copter. They both said in unison. ‘Its oil Its Oil sir!’ Gillian the Archeologist knew what was coming and quietly replied ‘Yep I know.’ Ranger Pete questioned, ‘How do you know?’ ‘Well’ spoke Gillian, in kind of a tired way, ‘A lot has happened here, since you left.’
(Most were tired at this camp after that water episode late last evening.)
… Thus Ranger Pete and Lead hand Jack looked about and could not believe the nice rather large river flowing a few feet away. ‘Winds of fortune!’ exclaimed Jack, ‘Where did you get the water?’ Gillian answered ‘By accident, in reality.’ Gracious!’ uttered Peter. Gillian said ‘Come on in people,’ and he led the group of 4 into the new hall.
… To Peter and Jack’s amazement, there were about 10 people lined up at these long tables cutting and slicing much food, for the unbelievable fridges and two very large freezers, before them. Jack uttered ‘Oh Lord, you really have been busy here! What happened?’ Just then the big copter came and landed, as this small group piled outside. ‘Amazing!’ exclaimed Jack, as Gillian quickly went to help Max unloaded two large pipes for their water supply.
… Well, Peter and Jack were dumbfounded. They just stood there looking at all the activity and the two strangers whom ran this huge copter, parked right near them. Their small group stood behind them in the same wonderment of silence. Jack said to Peter quietly, ‘And to think this place was barren even of people, when you flew by two days ago!’ Peter agreed in that same amazing voice, ‘Yes.’
… Peter caught up with Gillian again and asked, ‘How did you find out about the oil?’ Gillian replied, ‘Well my lead hand Charles and I decided to go onward. Since Jack spoke of look after the water at our Village here, we went to the only other place we knew, the new plateau further down the hill. As going there this morning, I phoned Max with the copter, for he was the one who flew us into this area in the beginning. He came and put a man down in a rubber suit and that man came up with oil all over him.
… Gillian paused and turned to look at the river. He uttered ‘Scheherazade! … This water was a surprise though.’
… Archeologist Gillian turned back to Peter, then explained ‘Copter Max took the workers to the Forbidden Plateau, for we needed money to pay Max. When they were digging the workers dislodged something and we were almost flooded out.’ Ranger Pete agreed, ‘That is very good water.’ Is it OK to drink, I’m thirsty.’ ‘Well here, you take this pail and that pail there and get some water into the Hall there . Could you do that?’ ‘Sure, and off went Peter and Jack.
… Well Copter Max made another couple of trips but then went home. There was too much for all to do, so there was no point in crowding the area with these huge pipes. Gillian was fine with that for in a bit these people would have to be fed. And that was going to be a big job, although there is no reason they can’t pitch in as well.
… At dinner Gillian sat with Max and asked, ‘How do we get the oil out of that lake?’ Max said ‘That is way out of my jurisdiction. You have to go to a mining company and they will have the equipment to get the oil out of ground. It will be a messy job and your plateau may not be suitable for living in afterward, for these oil wells last for years. That is if it is a big slick.’ You need to talk to the officials, not me, Sorry.’ Gillian asked ‘You mean like the company I went to for exchanging gem rock into loot!’ ‘Yes A True Bet, Sir. That company would probably come also.’ ‘Pleased, OK sure. Thanks. I will ask Peter.’ Gillian glanced another way and asked, ‘Is Peter here!’
… Gillian realized Peter was two people down from him. So he quietly got up and walked behind to Ranger Pete. He whispered in his ear, ‘Please, Could you drive me to town tomorrow?’ Peter said quietly ‘Swell.’ Gillian went back to his seat and all settled down again.
… Well, The potatoes came and Gillian took half a bowl. His nerves were very on edge and he wanted to eat-eat-eat. The crowd went home early and the others whom stayed, went to bed early. All were exhausted by the time this day was done. Too much at one time is all. There were a few sprained-brains in that crowd, too.
–
… Well time went on and as winter went into spring, things pulled together. The oil rig came but it was a small one. It did not stop them from opening up the plateau within the mountain core. They leveled off some of the walls so it allowed more light into their sanctuary. The walls that the wind blew into were left, but the ones taken down opened up the surrounding hills of grass and wild Flowers. So thus they plan to garden whole area for the next years to come.
… The New Village was well lived in over the winter, but it was mostly the workers. This was Great and Gillian had no problem with the situation. People have to come into area anyway, so if it is the workers whom built the area up, all the more they will respect their home here.
… On top of that the river that now flows through the Workers Village as it is called, has found its way down into the area of the Hidden Plateau. It is forming a marsh outside the plateau but the veggie gardens will benefit for sure. But inside the newest Plateau there was found a lake and small river by Max. So all is leveling off and life here in the Silver Ridge Plateaus is pleasant.
… This is excellent, for with the new electrical wires put in a few months back, there are rumors and news flashes regularly of outside world. There is war raging in many parts near. The dictatorial government is in for a whopper very soon.
… Who knows what will happen, but our group is so secluded that the governments do not know what is taking place here. And any that our groups have asked to help, those people will not tattle, for they would rather live here in these plateaus themselves, and many have already moved.
… And of the paddle wheel, it was built, but feeds the Ice Burg community via strong pumps. The old watering hole is used for the live stock only. And of the waterfall seen by Jack, well that is what is supplying water to the newest plateau of Hidden Valley. So most areas benefited by Keith’s accidental flooding.

–

Chapter 13 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

… One early morning Ranger Pete and Lead Jack who visit regularly now, heard on the news that the war has actually started in their homeland. All were braced, for it is their homeland and there were some feelings. They hope for the best.
… Then one spring in our mountainous area there came a copter. It did not know where to land and hovered a while. Our people could see this but were not sure who it was, for nobody called anyone! Our groups are nervous, for the war is raging and government is lashing out in many ways. They chose to stay indoors and the helicopter did leave. It was not Peter nor Max.
… A month later came another copter. This time people were out of doors so the copter saw them. It made a forced landing and a business man came out with a guard. George was there along with Andy also of business. This guy came to them and asked, “Whom owns this land here?’ George replied, ‘I’m not sure. We have been here for years, Sir. Who are you?’ Guy announced ‘I’m Sandy and run the parks and games land.’ ‘Well Sandy, we are living here, is there a problem?’
… Sandy answered ‘No we are looking for more people to fight the war and we did not figure, there was anyone here. “How do you live here sir?” ‘Well, we get by thanks.’ (This guy was nosy and peering into all corners. Andy had his cell and incognito called Pete and Jack. He text, Problem in the third solarium area. Stranger asking questions.)
… As waiting an answer, George and Andy talked with the fellow who was followed by his guard anywhere he went. They showed him the gardens they eat from and told, ‘We have minimal electricity here. Other then that the sheep give us clothing and the rivers or lake of area give us water. We suffice here Sir. It’s winters that are bad, sometimes.’
… It turned out that Peter and Jack were there but stayed out of sight. This was trouble. And when that copter left Peter and Jack called a meeting for all.
… Jack explained ‘Our homeland is in troubles and they are searching high and low for helpers to fight their war. If you wish their government, go help. If not keep out of sight!’
… George answered, ‘We did not go to meet them sir. We were already out side.’ Jack said ‘Yes but when you first heard them you should have fled. We do not want them to know we are here Sir.’ ‘Oh Good Grief, I did not know that’ replied George. ‘ Lord, next time run.’ As looking at the crowd Jack asked, ‘Have all got that?’ Most uttered, ‘yes.’
… Lead Jack and Pete called Gillian and they had a long talk. It was what to do if this keeps happening.
… Peter suggested ‘One, we could return to the Ice Burg Plateau. Nobody would think us there sir.’ ‘True.’ Gillian added ‘We could also go to the Hidden Plateau. That is behind much greenery and secluded with the mountain walls.’ ‘True’ agreed Peter, ‘but do we wish to attract their attention to the fact that we have an oil pump in our land?’ Jack smiled and answered ‘NO!’ ‘But we could further gut out Forbidden Plateau and some could stay there. Water is at hand!’ ‘For summer maybe!’ said Peter. ‘Oh yeah’ chimed Gillian, ‘There is no heat.’
–
… Suddenly Frank came bounding in to be face to face with Jack, Frank announced, sorry Twinkle-toes, there are gun men on their way here. They are coming over the distant hill and if we do not vanish we will be had Sirs! Peter was on his feet in a flash saying, 6 people get your jackets and come with me. Others go with Max. Gillian ran out the doors and shouted, ‘Max! Max!’
… Max did appear and was given orders to take all that he could up into the air. Peter took Jack’s group for he came with them. And most ran to copter. Max did not know how many he could fit in his big chopper but he was going to try. When they got into the air Peter gave Max a call via Gillian. He said, ‘Follow me!’ So the large copter flew after Ranger Pete’s small pipsqueak copter.
… Peter led them into the opposite direction and was discussing where to go? Frank spoke up with a solution, ‘I know an area not too far from here. It is my homeland. My family has a large farm there and would welcome us. But we would have to stay in the two cottages. If they are empty?’
… Ranger Pete agreed ‘Swell, where is this place.’ Frank in business suit replied, ‘It is this way pointing north east.’ So off they went with Big Max following. Along the way Gillian suggested ‘Oh I should phone Tackly’s in Jade’s Valley. They may be ambushed to go to war if caught.’ Thus before the copters went out of that phone Range, Gillian got a hold of his friends in Jade’s Valley.
… Well our group spent an hour in the air for it was further than any had thought. But it was a breath of fresh air. Some realized that the war pending was putting a negative aura about the land, and now they had flown out of it. They felt freed after many years.
… They came in for a landing in this farming field as the sun was shining and the birds were singing. It was mid summer and all was very green. As they all piled out of copter Frank said ‘Heavens, here comes the gang. I will go talk to them just stay here please.’
… Well our fellows of Jack and Gillian along with Peter and others, were in alarm, for here was a group of maybe 15 men coming swiftly towards them with rifles in hand. Out of the frying pan into the skillet, as it were. But they all relaxed when they saw Frank. ‘Good old Frank.’
… Frank came back to our groups with three men. He came closer and announced, ‘It is OK gang, this is my Pa and my two Uncles. They are the leaders of this group. We have many helpers for the farming of our fields and the ladies always have food going. While here never hesitate to ask for something. OK Gentlemen?’ There were a few hand shakes then our group was led to the 4 cottages, by these 3. (Apparently two more were built recently.)
–
… The main people of our group took one cottage for wished to discuss happenings. So Peter Jack Frank Berty Andy George Gillian Charles, Max and Rondo all lived together. With about 20 left the group inhabited three of these four cottages.
… As things settled down Frank’s people got all fed and gave instructions of how their routine was going to go. There would be three waves of eating so the ladies would be very busy just feeding this group. And sleeping was as they could, for they may have left over cottages but not many beds in each. That was fine, for many had their bedding on their backs for this expedition.
–
… Frank called a meeting in the first cottage and that was not a problem. It was evening and all were settling down within a couple of yards from each. So they got up and sat at the large table or as many as could. Frank told, ‘I will be away much. I know people who know the war situation. I will go and glean info to help us pass the time here. We may be here a while.’ ‘Yes’ agreed Peter, ‘You go if you have to.’ Frank then asked, ‘Could Berty come with me?’ Jack and Peter spoke as looking at one another, ‘I guess so. Jack asked, ‘Could you let us know in time, what is going on Sir?’ Sure Twinkle-toes.’ replied Frank.
… Then as looking at the rest, Frank put head down for felt shy. He replied, ‘Well not to brag but I am high up in the law of this area. They will want me to work and I have to go there and see what is happening with this war. They may have a prediction of where and when it will end. My group of lawyers are a surveillance group, and they detect in the area and from afar. This is part of their business.’ Peter uttered ‘Oh that is fantastic, I know a group as thus too. But I do not belong with them, they are my friends.’
… Gillian agreed, ‘Yes, you go to your profession, you may be of better help there, than with any of our plans here.’ He went on with, ‘People, I feel that we can be of great help to our hostesses. We will deal later with this.’ He turned to Jack and quietly spoke, ‘My treasure will certainly come in handy here. That is if we ever get back to own that land.’ Peter mentioned ‘Yes I wonder how Jeremy’s trials are going. Maybe we will be without our hills? Maybe this war will change all!’ The three looked at each in dread. Gillian said ‘Do not worry. If it all comes to not, I have much treasure stored away people. We will manage! Just cool your heals.’

… Later … Jack and Peter talked Of War on the government. They found out that Frank is the one to talk to about that. It turns out that he is a high ranking Lawyer and Judge who ran out of his profession because he ended up working for the dictatorial government who was doing all wrong. Swindlers in-fact.
… In order to get out, Frank had to leave town. But his group who was not involved with the same people, remained and focused on the little people. So when Frank went back he was hailed a hero. (He had his briefcase and it held all the legal papers of the heads of this war.) Now years later and with a war a-raging, here he is with all the wrong doings, these top governmental personnel wished and commanded him to pursue.
–

Frank Off To Work.
… Frank went to his group of colleagues, and they did a power search for higher lawyers and Judges, so to take the whole lot of these governmental people to court and do away with their ways.
… First thing this lawyer group did, was to take Frank to dinner and talk of all the things that have happened in work and home life. They all wished to hear what he had been up to and where he went. All was a glee with interest. The next day after much sleeping, in the offices. They got together to go to their favorite restaurant and have a good luncheon to talk business of future.
… In the next three days the Lawyers contacted a distant lawyer friend Tyson. Tyson was from a far off city and continent but he was pleased to hear from our group. His group knows of the war and has an ear to the wall as it were. But they are not legally involved. Frank and group asked him to come. He was unsure but said, ‘I will send a superintendent your way. His name is Chailey.’ So, Frank and group now await this Chailey
–

Franks Office.
… Early Summer one day, a knock came to their office door. Frank answered and in came this Chailey in business jacket and hat to match. An odd fellow in old fashion business dress but he was a gentleman. ‘Good afternoon, how are thee?’ Frank asked ‘How are you, it is good you could make it. We would like you to take this case of ours. The men here and I have much info of the wrong doings of the government at war.’ This Guy Chailey uttered, ‘Goodness, that sounds presentable. ‘Well, lets have a look.’ He sat down auto at end of table as the others found seats, and one had to get the extra chair which was a bit wobbly.
… Frank was smack in the middle of his team. He was beaming for felt a-kin to this person, and on top of that he had all the paperwork, although there was copies kept under lock and key in this office. Their Back up system. Sh…
… So Frank handed him a booklet of papers from his briefcase and this guy Chailey studied them for 15 minutes. The others were fidgeting a bit, but it was to be. They were nervous for it was not of the governments Will, that they were presenting this evidence. They eventually told this Lawyer and judge and he answered, ‘Well, given the fact that they are in fact winning and have killed many persons, I would say ‘Bully for you folks.’ This is good work. How did you manage to keep this paperwork, so well kept for the last 10 years? Its not dog eared or yellowing at all?’ Roman said, ‘It was Frank here. He keeps it in his briefcase always, everywhere he goes. It is like it is growing from His arm.’ The guy looked at Frank and just smiled.
… After another 5 minutes and reading all the papers he replied, ‘Yes, for goodness’s sake, let’s get on with this. I will phone Tyson and tell him it’s a go.’ So with that, three of the people in this lawyers group handed Chailey their phone. Then Frank asked ‘Come into the next room. You probably wish privacy.’ Chailey agreed ‘Yes thank you much.’ So, he left the phones and took his hat off and walked, disappearing into next room. All was silent for another half hour, but our group had other stuff to do, so all was back to business.
… Then without any knowing, this guy had finished and came out to sit at a table. After a bit one lawyer asked, ‘Oh have you finished?’ Chailey replied, ‘I have gotten a hold of Tyson and he is coming out here now. So I ask if you have a spare office we could use, we will be arranging things for arresting of the right people.’ No moss grows under Tyson’s feet.’ ‘Charmed’ uttered Frank, ‘this is great thank you Sir!’ Chailey answered ‘That is fine it is my job.’
… Berty said ‘Our ship may come in yet, then maybe we can move back to our homeland. Jeremy Whitman asked me to help with opening up the land as a farmer. That is main reason why I’m with my group, but now I do not work for him and I miss home.’ ‘Great’ uttered Frank, ‘I will also rest easier if that government is out of area.’
… Chailey asked, ‘What became of this Jeremy?’ Frank explained, ‘He was the instigator of opening up the land that we have been helping with. But he was not straight in business and the law finally got him. He may be in jail right now. But for sure he is in trials.’ Berty agreed, ‘Yes, the land we stay on was his but a Ranger of our group heard the lawyers saying, that they would give the land to us.’ We have 5… Pl…
… Frank stopped Berty saying, ‘We do not know that for sure. We are still waiting that outcome, and then we get this war and the government coming into our area and harassing us to help. Our group is in hiding at this point. Lawyer Chailey answered, ‘Good.’ That is all you can do. Governmental affairs take so long to get through. … It is good you all had a placed to go. That can be a difficult obstacle.’
… Well, when Tyson did come knocking on the office doors, He had gotten a hold of several more lawyers and they were ready to go to trial right then. Apparently, this Government has been taking smaller cities by invasion and there have been a whole string of persons of higher government, shunted out of their positions through misdemeanors. Tyson has gotten from these lawyers many papers of court cases that were interrupted, thus left unfinished within this type of government’s wake, and these top lawyers of 15 are out for blood.
… As the days of summer went into fall and the lawyers were discussing their progress, the time came when the first Court case was due. Tyson announced to Frank, ‘Your friend here and even you, if you wish, may go home. Go to your friends and relax, for these trials will go on for months. They are not for the public so you will be sitting about most of times.’
… Frank agreed, ‘Well that does sound as a good idea Sir, Thank-you. But you call me if there is anything I can do.’ ‘Sure!’ agreed Tyson. ‘You have a copter ride?’ Frank uttered ‘Charmed, I can call Ranger Pete.’ ‘OK we will be off to court very early in morning, so there is no need for you to stay. Pete can come today if you wish.’ ‘Sure, thanks.’ Frank found his phone and phone to Peter. ‘Swell’ was the answer.
… When Peter’s pipsqueak copter came Jack and Gillian had come for the ride. All were glad to see our two men and they went home to Franks relatives in a jovial mood. A much better place to wait for news, for sure. Beside it was Autumn and there is much work to do on a farm in harvest season. Our two were becoming bored waiting and listening to the jargon of the lawyers and their fancy wording.
–
… Well, it was several months later when in the spring, all were getting antsy. Too many people in one place, not many liked. Well you have to put up with stuff to get ahead and that is what is happening.
… On this nice spring day, one of Franks Uncles went out to gather the mail of which there was usually none. But today there was a box full. Uncle Tom came merrily in to Frank and uttered, ‘There has been a wind fall. Look at this! None of this is for me either but several are for you. And you don’t even live here?!’
… Frank took the bundle to the cabin area and called the group as walking toward the first cabin. He had to call twice for there was some partying going on last night. They are getting very antsy and have wondered if like in past, Peter was forgotten about. But they soon found different.
… Frank went in and told to a few there, ‘Here is the mail fellows. Help yourselves.’ And that is exactly what they had to do. These were papers inviting them all to the Court cases against the Governmental personnel, that Berty and Frank got our lawyer group to take to court, those several months ago.
… As they did their reading and things settled again they started to stir for coffee. It started low with a few comments and Frank looking toward Peter. Frank asked Pete, ‘How is your copter doing Sir.’ Peter just smiled for was not awake yet. Well, after throwing some coffee around, they had another party, at least with conversations. This mail was their ticket out of here. Gillian phoned Max in next cabin and asked if he was willing to take a trip. Although he was not that involved with the proceedings of past government, he was eager to change the situation and obliged without a complaint.
… So on the day the first public trial was, off went our top people. They had no idea how big this court was so they did not wish to take 40 people there. Those who got invitations went and Max went to give rides. But as they got there it was in a big city and the court was huge, so Max joined the rest in the court hearing.
… Well Jack and Peter were relieved that they didn’t take all there, for what a bore! It was very legal and business like. Being governmental personnel, they were stuffed shirts to boot. Most were long winded, trying to hide the facts that they were guilty. The antics were sickening, for our people knew a lot from what they were told by Frank. This may have been not right of Frank, but when it came down to it, some of our people were shouting back at the ones obviously lying through their teeth. In-fact although there was some shouting back by a few others not of our group, our group almost got kicked out.
… Frank was called to the witness stand three times, so after all of that he was ready to be carted away. This was only the first public hearing but a few of our people had to take Frank out for a quiet coffee, so he could settle down. They figured these acts the government people put Frank through, was the reason why he was classified as a quiet man, for at that trial he certainly was not. He was the one shouting louder than any, from in the audience or on the stand. He and his profession was squelched by these people and he was going to have his say. Good for him!
… After this routine went on for 3 months Frank settled down. He has spoken all he wished to, and it became routine as a witness, to quietly view paperwork which he followed with each court case. By fall he was a different man, being much more assured and jovial and boisterous. It is amazing what humans can do to humans and not know its been done.
–
… Then several court cases later the lawyers called our people into the rooms of the court. They said, ‘We are going to win! As you may know in preceding events, many have already spilled the beans. We are just wrapping things up and deciding what sentencing to give. The Judges are to do this at the adjourning of the trial, but we are expected to give alterations for punishment.’
… As our people were agreeing, a cart of goodies came into room. They all scrambled and got a cake or Tart with coffee.
… As all got settled again, another lawyer, our Tyson, stood up among the crowd and said, ‘We are going to grant you … Peter and Jack, the rights to the areas you have built up. We have had surveyors go there and view what has been done. This was done while you were away from this area.’
… ‘The surveyors went to a place called Ice Berg Plateau and found the ladies and children there. All was good and the maintenance with Bailey and Benson had come out of the cave and were helping the ladies with much stuff. This allowed the Surveyors to have guides to lead them on their tours through the valleys there.’
… ‘The surveyors took the maps you people drew of your areas, and they noted it actually said Gillian on most maps. Is this one here today?’ ‘Yes, it is I.’ answered Gillian. ‘Well you can be in on this too.’ Peter spoke up and agreed ‘Yes, actually Gillian here was the one who opened up most of the plateaus, with the help of us and the workers he has collected. Jack and I were away much of the time, giving copter rides and figuring what to do and how to proceed.’
… Main Lawyer Tyson then asked ‘Yes, well whomever should be on this document please sign it as well. I leave it up to Jack and Peter here, for they are the Rangers within this group. Thanks for your support and we will adjourn in a few minutes here. If you do not wish to appear within these court cases that is fine. You may come to last court hearing if wish, but it will be sentencing more than anything. Thank You All.’
–

… After the conversation lawyer Tyson came to Jack and Peter saying. ‘The people at Iceberg Plateau wanted us to tell you that, they know you are not in communication yet, but they are doing good. The ladies wished the maintenance personnel to help with the heavy stuff and they obliged. Ladies said it was relief for them, for they felt they were supposed to stay in the solarium, for was told it was their home. The last cold winter months they even got to making moon shine! So all is good there! They await your return with news.’ ‘Swell’ uttered Peter, ‘that is great and thanks.’
… Lawyer Tyson turned and announced, ‘OK people we are going to call it a day now. Have a good trip home and only come tomorrow if you wish. We will be in contact with you through the early part of next week.’ ‘Yes,’ was heard, and off went the lawyers.
… Well, our people went homeward, that is to Frank’s. Few weeks later, when it came time to go to last hearing nobody wished to go. They all signed the paper as Jack and Peter asked and now await the official verdict.
… After a couple of weeks, the guys did get a call. Peter and Jack both got calls by lawyers and were told to bring the main people to their law offices in a few days. So very early this morning, off they went with Jack Peter, Gillian, Max Frank and Charles. After many conversations in the large forays and small meeting centers, they were invited in and served dinner.
… Over dinner each was asked of all the things they had helped in this endeavor with. The lawyers were just cross-referencing these fellows for the official documents. They had to get particulars of identification and the likes. As this dinner was going on there was a typist typing out all that was said, and after the dinner they all signed the official papers again and all got a copy.
… Before they left they were handed 5 locks and keys for 5 doors. They were told to build a big building for major meetings and that the new governmental people and the local group of lawyers, would arrive regular through the next years. ‘We will keep tabs and be there to help all.’ ‘Thank you!’ chimed Peter, ‘so it is official?’ ‘Yes Sir, you may go any time.’ They all smiled and conversation went on for a few more hours, while nibbling what they thought they could hold.

–

Chapter 14 … Silver Ridge Plateaus.

–

The Ending — The Iceberg face lift.
… Well, On their way home, our group was dropped down to Iceberg Plateau and Max stayed to share the events that had and were to take place by the ladies and maintenance fellows.
… Within the time our main people were away within court, of about 3 months, the ladies had spruced up the place, so this Central Square Plaza looked very different. It was larger for one, and there was a live tree there now, classified as their official Christmas Tree. The gardens in boxes about were planted directly into the ground which had been dug up and put good rich soil there.
… There were small bits of fencing put about these garden patches so nobody could sit in the garden, and that was all well, but now there were many well built benches and tables near, so many could have picnics in summer months.
… With the presence of running water the maintenance people were able to create a small water fall in Central Square as well. It became a beautiful garden patch, instead of a mud pile. The meeting building got a second story so they could eat upstairs and meet down. This was better for the ladies for they had a secluded area to create good dinners. So now, No one could come in and swipe a spoon full of this or that.
… This also allowed many to create artistic pictures and other objects for the walls about. And with this, schooling was started and there formed an art group for the Children as well. It was not official schooling but with the older kids as Marsha and Susie, who were learning to teach, it became a joy to many.
… Another curriculum was set up so, in the cold winter months of Iceberg Plateau, the people moved downhill. No more freezing hands and noses. They were living in 3rd and 4th solariums and the worker’s Village people would move up hill to partake in winter events including the winter Game Meals. These were still being very well received, especially with warmer weather.
… Jade’s Valley people are becoming regulars in our plateaus, for skiing was opening up in the higher mountain ranges. Ice Burg Plateau may be deserted by the common people in the cooler months, but not by the Skiers. So this frozen plateau will become more like what the original owners wished, as a resort for all about.
–
… Well here and now, before leaving the Ice Plateau the copters managed to stuff all the 14 other people in, and all propelled their way, down into the warmer Worker’s Village. This is where there was going to be several days of joyous celebrations. The general populous here does not know what is going to transpire, for Peter and Jack along with Gillian will keep that a secret till the proceedings proceed.
… All spent a day or more decorating and the two copters went out and got other stuff needed as in more chairs and tables for this feast. And Max’s copter brought much more as in eats and awards and presents.
… Peter and Jack were going to create an awards night and Gillian not knowing all, was going to be presented with a government position acknowledged by all as the way to go. Frank being a lawyer as his profession, will be the lawyer and judge for our area and Peter and Jack are of course Rangers having rescue sense and protection of the public. Any of the workers there have shown themselves to be good builders and carpenters along with creating something out of nothing and this will come in handy as well.
… There is going to be a large lake created with water-skiing and the likes, down near the 5th and 6th solariums to be. This was the land that was adjacent to Jade’s Valley Lake.
(Remember, some felt they had to hurry and proclaim that area in signage or something, before the people of Jade’s Valley kind of just took it over, not knowing it was not Jade’s Valley.)
… Well as it turned out, Nobody had stayed in that area long for the shooting started when venturing there. But with the maps our forerunners have acquired, it is truly their land to excavate. And with most people’s consent a few months back, Jack and Peter will see, that the large lake that was ordered, will be with picnic and campsite grounds. What a great place to go when you spend all your time in Iceberg Plateau.
… Well, our leads have much ambition and there will be much more by many others before this celebration is out, for all these people will have a job in their new county to be.
–
… As this next spring progressed the people were positioned within their jobs and were preparing for some proper building of several townships. Since there was little room for vehicles, and the copters were much the only transportation, they decided to make small cities throughout their range.
… A while later, on this morning while Jack and Peter (who stays with our groups more often than not) were in Iceberg Plateau listening to radio and munching down on a good breakfast. Being summer months, there were enough eggs for all, so in mornings, all lined up to a good meal.
–

The Return of Bad News.
… Well, The radio was on and along came the news. Suddenly the name of Jeremy was blurted out. Jack looked at Peter in shock. They did not think even for a second, that he would be getting out at this time. Jack phoned Frank who stayed in his town with his kin. Frank announced, ‘Well Twinkle-toes, they are let out for various reasons. If he was a good boy, they do give them a break.’ Jack asked ‘But what if he comes here?’ Peter sitting near Jack replied, ‘Jack, you have to remember they were going to give him mental therapy. Maybe he got better!’
… By this time Jack has frozen. He did not want to get into that regime again. Especially since, here now, there is so much good stuff. He turned to Peter in shock and asked, ‘What if he comes and starts changing all around. It is his land originally!’
… Jack became quiet and leaned toward Peter saying, ‘I was wondering, Why did we get a lot more land from the Lawyers?’ ‘I’m not sure’ replied Pete. The best thing you can do is call the lawyers that have helped you in past, and go have another talk. They may know a bit about the situation, and it may be, he has to stay within that town in your homeland. We do not know! So do not get all wound up Jack. Relax and enjoy your freedom here. We have much to do.’ ‘Yes, you are right.’
… Things settled down, but you could see in Jacks eyes, he was perplexed. Jeremy was a good friend in the beginning but now things have changed. What was Jack to do? Tell Jeremy to butt out, I am not your friend anymore?
… As the warm evening went by all were out in Iceberg area and down through the slopes. Jack was there but alone and silent. He could not stand waiting any more.
… He marched up the hill and phoned when nobody was around. Jack got a hold of the lawyers and in this late evening, he asked for an appointment. The one on the other end of the wire said ‘So you heard hey.’ ‘What?’ uttered Jack, ‘Heard what?’ Lawyer Bates asked, ‘Of Jeremy your friend.’ Jack right away replied ‘No he is not my friend thanks.’ Bates went on with, ‘Well that was a few years back Jack, and you do not need to worry. I believe he is in custody still. It is just a break for him is all. It may be he is going to be moved to another place and is just stretching his legs. I will look into it, but do not worry.’
… Jack replied with, ‘In a jam Bates, I thank you. I really do not wish to speak with that person. I am leaving that in my past.’ ‘Yes, I have to go Jack, but I will phone you sometime next week. OK?’ ‘Sure I await your call Thanks’. But as Jack came back into civilization, some were watching him, namely Peter and Charles. They know what is happening just by the looks of Jacks face.
–
… Well things again did settle down and the lawyer did phone. He told Jack, ‘If Jeremy appears there in your area, let us know.’ Bates had talked with the other lawyers and it was a breather for Jeremy. He still had some time to serve before they would give him a probation release but things do change.
–
… As the next fall was approaching, all were very busy in the villages of this mountain range. There were great party’s coming up and most had their minds on them, Including the Winter Games, of which many had already signed up for.
… Then one morning Jack got a call from a lawyer. ‘Hey Jack, can I talk to you now?’ ‘Sure.’ Lawyer said, ‘I do not wish you to spread this about just yet. ‘Winds of Fortune, what is happening?’ asked Jack. Lawyer told ‘It is about Jeremy.’ Jack sat up straight with that. Lawyer said, ‘He is actually being let out in a week or two. Now do not get upset. He is much better in his mind and had a reason why he got irate. If you would like to hear, I must ask you to come into a meeting. This is stuff we are not supposed to be spreading around on account of the accomplices in this crime.’
… Jack was silent .. then uttered, ‘Crime?’ ‘Yes Jack, Jeremy was swindled out of land. We gave you his land to keep, but you probably realize it was much more than what Jeremy told you of.’ ‘Amazing,’ exclaimed Jack, ‘I wondered about that.’ Lawyer went on with, ‘Well he was swindled out of the rest. Have you people had any problems with others chasing you off lands in your area?’ ‘NO’ replied Jack, ‘Alright told this lawyer, just be aware then. Please come in and we can talk further.’ ‘Good-Good. Can I tell Peter?’ ‘Yes tell him to bring you in when he can.’ ‘ Thanks.’ and they hung up.
… Well Jack was bewildered. After he hung up the wall phone, he sat there quietly in the eating hall as others were talking of their day, to begin. He was racking in his brain of all the stuff Jeremy was saying to him. He thought of the guards Jeremy had in Jade’s Valley and wondered if they were protecting him! Maybe the shootings were about others whom were out to do him in? Who knows what was going on?
… Jack was getting a different picture of his friend now. Jack also realized it was almost 7 years ago that Jeremy was creating havoc in these hills. Jack did make a short trip into the lawyers offices via Peter’s copter, but this only provoked him into thinking long and hard on the situation. This state went on for two weeks, before Jack was able to put it out of his mind as misunderstandings.
–

Visitors of the Winter Games.
… Well, the Winter Games were almost to begin. Now as we all know, this is often a time when grievances were talked of and dealings were made. It was a balancing time for many woes. So when we say Jeremy was present, you know why.
… Jeremy was not front and center for he was in fear of what they may do to him. In the olden days he was in much fear and anguish, so he was acting out of survival instinct.
… Here we catch up with Jeremy in the hills about our area. He was bundled up warm for it was cold out in this wintertime. So with looking as an Eskimo as many do, he would not be recognized by anyone.
… The officials had let him go and he was given a guard for his life. Jeremy was very well aware of the fact, that the accomplices who took his land from him, were still at large, so he was still hiding and running from foe. But he also knew now, that they were in the wrong. He had many grievances he needed to patch up and this is partly why the officials allowed him to take leave at this particular time.
… As Jeremy was looking down upon our plateaus, he was discussing things with guard Tomson. (There was another Thompson earlier in this story. Was this the same person?) The guard was getting used to Jeremy for Jeremy would well up into tears many times, just to see the progress this place has endured. Remember, this was all a dream Jeremy wished to pursue many years ago. So to see progress, this moved him, for he was still very attached to his ideas.
–

The Winter Games.
… People were moving up toward the third and second plateaus, for the biggest eating area was on Iceberg Plateau and this mealtime was quickly approaching. Jack, Peter and Charles were together and winding their way up the hills, which has become a traditional journey for most. This trip gave them the memory of the struggle they had, to start this community. (for this reason they left the path untouched for a natural wilderness effect.)
… Well there were many faces that appeared at this time of year. One of these faces not often seen these days, was copter driver Max, who just brought in 15 more people with that huge copter of his. Jack and Peter were partly on their way to greet Max, to another year of festivities.
–
… There were more and more people coming to these Winter Game times. Not only to the big dinner, but also to partake with the teams or to route for their favorite group. Now that the Homeland Continent has cleaned up their situation, the Silver Ridge Plateaus get much advertising for these Games. With this happening, our group has built many buildings to house thousands of people in area and some of the original buildings as the Meeting Hall get regular upgrades, which is now there, mainly for the Winter Eats.
… It has become more a Buffet Building which holds the food not only for the game periods but for the time before and after these Winter Events. Several thousand Visitors will walk into the building and out again with their choice food items. In non-game times of year, it still became the local café. With this transformation, the regular meeting areas are now in the vicinity of the third Plateau with its wildflower and grassy hills.
… As Peter and Charles met Max, much greeting was going on with the passengers. Jack continued up into the area where the copters land, for another copter not known, just came into the landing site. It was one hired by a large group of people wearing uniforms. Obviously more teams for the competitions.
… It was agreed this year, that there will be three days of games, for there are more and more teams joining in the festivities from the continents around. Jack greeted one after another and along the way without knowing it, he had greeted Jeremy to these games with his guard, who was in common wear. With all, bundled up as coming into their area, it was hard telling who was whom.
… As Jack greeted Jeremy, Jeremy handed Jack a piece of paper as most did. It was tickets and receipts for the games and for the many prizes and trips to be won. All these papers were put into a big basket for the draws etc. Without looking, Jack failed to notice the paper Jeremy gave him had Jack’s name on it. But it along with the rest got thrown into the pile.
… Through this progression people were very busy milling in and out of everywhere. This was becoming a great prospering time for our groups, and the funds coming in helped Iceberg Village, to build the ever growing number of other plateaus on down the hillsides. The food preparation area was like a city unto itself with about 50 people involved in that area alone. Needless to say, all who lived or had doings in our areas were busy at this time of year. But things did get done over the several days involved, before the games began.
… One of many, who was organizing the prizes, draws, tickets and receipts, … saw this small envelope with Jack’s name on and sent an errand-child to deliver it back to Jack. So a few hours later Jack received this small envelope with his name on it. As the evening was wearing down and after Peter and Jack ran many errands themselves, they retired to one of the hotels.
… Within their apartment, Jack sat comfortably in a large chair with Peter near. As the evening progressed, Jack took out the envelope from his pocket and opened it. He gasped when he read the name. Peter asked, ‘What is wrong?’ Jack did not say a word, but flung his arm out toward Peter, so Peter took the paper and read it. After a minute Peter exclaimed, ‘Well what do you know!’ Its an apology from Jeremy, is all!’ Jack just looked at Peter in silence.
… Then after a few minutes Jack muttered, ‘Well I guess he is allowed to be here.’ Peter agreed ‘Yes, after all it is we whom have said many times, if you have grievances, the Winter Games time is the place to confront them.’ Jack uttered very quietly ‘Yes.’ Then not much more was said.
–
… So as the time went by, it became Games night again and most were crowding into one of the 3 buildings on Iceberg Plateau, where the winter Tournaments would transpire. Many of our group were together in this one building awaiting the start, as others came and filled the empty seats, including the one beside Jack. In these cool very large arenas, many remained in their winter jackets, with hats and scarves, so often you greeted the stranger next to you whether you knew them or not. Greetings were with a jovial smile, for that was the atmosphere within these Games. So here was Jack and this new arrival glancing at each other and smiling away.
… Now Jeremy knew who he was smiling at for he had been very alert to the situation, but Jack was not sure. Jack took another look and said, ‘Oh Hi, how are you doing!?’ Jeremy answered, ‘Not bad, how about yourself?’ Jack, suddenly knowing who was beside him, just stared at Jeremy … then smiled, … thus the story goes on.

… Lynne … (Created 2016-20.) On DVD.
–

PS … Jeremy was accepted into area and did give a hand in helping. Gillian gave him money for his works, but they stayed aloof, for Jeremy knew his land was not his for the taking now.
… But as time went on, Jeremy got many lawyers to help in the spying of Jade’s Valley, and in the end even Jeremy got his wish. His perpetrators were caught trialed and jailed within 5 years. What goes around, often comes around. Good for him!
… Jeremy now abides within Jade’s Valley, with a few of the people that helped guard him, in his crucial times.
… He is now a happy camper.

……..

These Stories cycle every 3-4 weeks.
Story 1 + 2. Did not know how to make stories. Learned as I went.
Several events entered into Story 3 to broaden some Character’s History.
Story 3. War Town. Created before 2010. First Story.
Story 4. Rescuing Rescuers. Created before 2010.
Story 5. Two Faced Sully. Created before 2010.
Story 6. Clifton Disappearances. Created 2010. Revised 2023.
Story 7. Three Wealthy Brothers. Created 2010.
Story 8. Sweetland’s Expeditions. Created 2010.
Story 9. Scarway Surprise. Created 2011-15.
Story 10. Fat Cats and Pirates. Created 2011-15.
Story 11. Scandalous Maneuvers. Created 2011-15.
Story 12. Frost Island. Created 2011-15.
Story 13. Oh, The Tunnels We Dig. Created 2017.
Story 14. Winning Island. Created 2016-20.
Story 15. Silver Ridge Plateaus. Created 2017.
Story 16. Zone Affairs. Created 2018.
Story 17. Cycles of Life. Created 2017.
Story 18. Bermuda Desert Created 2020.
Story 19. The Hidden King. Created 2022.
Story 20. An Invisible Army. Created 2024.
Story 21. New. The Christian’s Valley. Created 2024.