WEBVTT 1 00:00:00.040 --> 00:00:01.600 Today, I want to tell you about a journey that 2 00:00:01.600 --> 00:00:03.879 I've been on for most of my life. Ever since 3 00:00:03.919 --> 00:00:05.799 I was a kid, I've heard tales of bigfoot and 4 00:00:05.839 --> 00:00:08.320 wild men while spending time with my friends and family. 5 00:00:09.039 --> 00:00:11.439 As I grew older and read more about the paranormal, 6 00:00:11.599 --> 00:00:14.679 my interest in encryptids and other things strange only deepened. 7 00:00:15.240 --> 00:00:17.160 That's why I'm so excited to share with you what 8 00:00:17.199 --> 00:00:21.640 I've personally become involved with the Untold Radio Network. The 9 00:00:21.719 --> 00:00:25.280 Untold Radio Network is a live streaming podcast network that 10 00:00:25.359 --> 00:00:29.359 airs a new show every day across all podcast platforms, YouTube, 11 00:00:29.359 --> 00:00:32.119 and more. They have eight different shows on all sorts 12 00:00:32.159 --> 00:00:36.119 of exciting topics such as bigfoot, cryptids, UFOs, aliens, and 13 00:00:36.200 --> 00:00:39.479 much more. I even have my own show called Weird Encounters, 14 00:00:39.479 --> 00:00:42.439 where I talk about all things strange. This is more 15 00:00:42.479 --> 00:00:45.280 than just a podcast network. It's a community that allows 16 00:00:45.320 --> 00:00:47.759 me to meet so many amazing people who share their 17 00:00:47.799 --> 00:00:51.520 stories and experiences with strange. If you're interested in hearing 18 00:00:51.520 --> 00:00:53.880 more of these stories and learning more about the paranormal 19 00:00:53.960 --> 00:00:56.679 and encryptids, make sure you check out the Untold Radio 20 00:00:56.759 --> 00:01:00.600 Network for all kinds of exciting shows. It's free to subscribe. 21 00:01:00.679 --> 00:01:04.400 So what are you waiting for visit www dot untold 22 00:01:04.519 --> 00:01:06.560 radionetwork dot com today. 23 00:01:06.760 --> 00:01:09.680 Now, what are your reporting? I got a screen going 24 00:01:09.719 --> 00:01:12.120 on here. Something just kid with my dog, something to 25 00:01:12.200 --> 00:01:15.280 kill your dog? My dog. We're flying through there over 26 00:01:15.319 --> 00:01:20.079 the tree. I don't know how it did it? Okay, Damn, 27 00:01:20.159 --> 00:01:22.640 I'm really confused. All I saw was my dog coming 28 00:01:22.680 --> 00:01:24.480 over the fence, and name was dead once you hit 29 00:01:24.519 --> 00:01:26.560 the grill. I didn't see any cars. All I saw 30 00:01:26.680 --> 00:01:45.120 was my dog coming over the fence. Sat, what are 31 00:01:45.120 --> 00:01:49.959 you reporting? We got some wonder or something crawling around 32 00:01:50.040 --> 00:01:58.640 out here? Did you see what it was? It was 33 00:01:59.359 --> 00:02:01.439 enough out here. Look, I'm new to window now and 34 00:02:01.480 --> 00:02:05.040 I don't need anything. I don't want to go outside. 35 00:02:05.120 --> 00:02:12.199 Its fight. Hello, hit the boddy out here? What quent 36 00:02:12.240 --> 00:02:15.159 on out there? It's thought of a bit about sixty nine? 37 00:02:15.240 --> 00:02:18.280 I don't know easy amount there. Yeah, I'm walking right heady. 38 00:02:19.199 --> 00:02:22.080 The morning sun casts soft light over the clearing outside 39 00:02:22.080 --> 00:02:25.080 the new cave, its rays filtering through the pines and 40 00:02:25.080 --> 00:02:29.000 illuminating the rocky walls that sheltered the clan. As they 41 00:02:29.039 --> 00:02:32.639 moved about assessing the area, A sense of cautious relief 42 00:02:32.680 --> 00:02:36.439 permeated the group. Each member of the clan recognized the 43 00:02:36.520 --> 00:02:40.120 unique protection the cliffs offered, their natural walls, making it 44 00:02:40.159 --> 00:02:43.520 difficult for intruders to stumble upon them. It felt, for 45 00:02:43.599 --> 00:02:46.080 the first time in days, like a place where they 46 00:02:46.120 --> 00:02:50.280 could breathe a little easier. Omaki surveyed the cave entrance, 47 00:02:50.840 --> 00:02:54.280 her eyes narrowed in concentration as she mentally mapped out 48 00:02:54.319 --> 00:02:58.240 the safest arrangement for the clan's essential spaces. The main 49 00:02:58.280 --> 00:03:01.639 living area would be situated deep within, where the light 50 00:03:01.759 --> 00:03:05.800 was dim but ample for privacy and warmth. Gathering spots 51 00:03:05.840 --> 00:03:08.680 for shared meals and discussions would be kept closer to 52 00:03:08.719 --> 00:03:12.759 the front. Meanwhile, they would take turns acting as lookouts, 53 00:03:12.759 --> 00:03:16.240 posting near the edges of their new territory, their presence 54 00:03:16.319 --> 00:03:21.280 serving as the first line of defense against any possible intruders. Mikah, 55 00:03:21.520 --> 00:03:23.639 can you organize a team to clear the entrance and 56 00:03:23.680 --> 00:03:27.240 set up wind barriers, Amaki called her voice, carrying with 57 00:03:27.319 --> 00:03:30.919 quiet authority. The air is sharp here. We'll need those 58 00:03:30.919 --> 00:03:34.840 barriers to keep the warmth inside the cave. Mika nodded, 59 00:03:35.199 --> 00:03:37.759 rallying the younger clan members to help with the task. 60 00:03:38.439 --> 00:03:41.639 They began gathering stones and falling branches to construct low 61 00:03:41.680 --> 00:03:46.000 walls and natural partitions at the entrance. Their arrangements strategic 62 00:03:46.039 --> 00:03:49.439 to break the wind while blending seamlessly into the surroundings. 63 00:03:50.280 --> 00:03:53.520 The clan moved carefully, keeping noise and visibility to a 64 00:03:53.560 --> 00:03:58.400 minimum as they worked. Meanwhile, Asha, Caboda, and Coda took 65 00:03:58.400 --> 00:04:01.280 on the task of setting up a lookout system. They 66 00:04:01.319 --> 00:04:04.680 climbed the cliffs that bordered the cave, choosing high, natural 67 00:04:04.719 --> 00:04:09.039 perches that provided unobstructed views of the valley below. From 68 00:04:09.039 --> 00:04:12.680 these positions, any approach by humans or other potential threats 69 00:04:12.840 --> 00:04:16.920 would be visible long before they drew near. Coda, weighed 70 00:04:16.920 --> 00:04:19.759 down by his recent encounter with the drone, worked with 71 00:04:19.800 --> 00:04:23.680 a solemn diligence that did not go unnoticed. Are you 72 00:04:23.720 --> 00:04:26.920 all right, Coda, Asha asked. As they secured their positions 73 00:04:26.920 --> 00:04:30.560 with natural footholds and vines, ensuring they could climb back 74 00:04:30.600 --> 00:04:35.639 down easily and without leaving traces. Coda paused his gaze, 75 00:04:35.720 --> 00:04:39.680 lingering on the forest stretching endlessly below. I keep thinking 76 00:04:39.720 --> 00:04:43.800 about what happened back there. I should have been more careful, son. 77 00:04:44.360 --> 00:04:47.160 We all make mistakes. What matters is that you're here 78 00:04:47.199 --> 00:04:50.839 now helping keep the clan safe. We're stronger for it. 79 00:04:51.759 --> 00:04:56.800 Coda managed a small nod, his expression softening with gratitude. Together, 80 00:04:56.879 --> 00:05:00.199 they continued their work, setting up a silent alert system, 81 00:05:00.279 --> 00:05:03.720 using carefully arranged stones and leaves that would rustle or 82 00:05:03.759 --> 00:05:07.160 clatter with the slightest disturbance, allowing them to signal the 83 00:05:07.199 --> 00:05:11.439 clan quickly if anything approached. As the clan settled into 84 00:05:11.439 --> 00:05:14.800 their new environment, routines began to emerge that anchored them 85 00:05:14.800 --> 00:05:18.279 to their new surroundings. Micah and Rayla took on the 86 00:05:18.319 --> 00:05:22.720 task of mapping the nearby area, cataloging edible plants, herbs, 87 00:05:23.000 --> 00:05:27.040 and small game trails. The abundance of resources reassured them 88 00:05:27.079 --> 00:05:29.639 that they would survive through the winter months, Yet the 89 00:05:29.680 --> 00:05:32.600 knowledge of being close to human paths meant they gathered 90 00:05:32.639 --> 00:05:36.399 quietly and efficiently, never straying too far from the cliffs. 91 00:05:37.319 --> 00:05:41.759 Paca organized regular foraging expeditions to gather berries, nuts, and 92 00:05:41.839 --> 00:05:45.639 medicinal herbs. He learned how to conceal his tracks to 93 00:05:45.720 --> 00:05:49.439 leave no signs of their presence. Every move was calculated, 94 00:05:49.879 --> 00:05:53.279 every action taken with the understanding that discovery would mean 95 00:05:53.319 --> 00:05:57.319 an end to their sanctuary. One afternoon, as Paca and 96 00:05:57.360 --> 00:06:00.800 Micah made their way deeper into the forest to collect water. Onions, 97 00:06:01.279 --> 00:06:04.279 she noticed a small footprint left by one of the clan. 98 00:06:05.120 --> 00:06:07.319 She quickly erased it with a sweep of her hand, 99 00:06:07.680 --> 00:06:10.319 her gaze serious as she addressed the group once they 100 00:06:10.399 --> 00:06:14.160 returned to the cave. We leave no trace, she reminded them, 101 00:06:14.360 --> 00:06:18.160 her voice steady. Every footprint, every broken branch could be 102 00:06:18.199 --> 00:06:20.959 a message to those who wished to harm us. We 103 00:06:21.000 --> 00:06:25.800 moved like shadows in the forest. Everyone nodded solemnly. The 104 00:06:25.839 --> 00:06:29.439 younger generation was learning quickly, adapting to the realities of 105 00:06:29.480 --> 00:06:33.000 their new life with a resilience that reassured the elders. 106 00:06:33.720 --> 00:06:36.639 The long, quiet evenings inside the cave brought a sense 107 00:06:36.680 --> 00:06:40.079 of closeness that the clan hadn't experienced in some time. 108 00:06:40.920 --> 00:06:44.600 Gathered around low burning fires, they shared stories and laughter, 109 00:06:45.199 --> 00:06:48.079 each moment a reminder of their shared bonds and the 110 00:06:48.120 --> 00:06:51.519 trust that held them together. The presence of the cliffs 111 00:06:51.519 --> 00:06:54.759 and the secluded river nearby gave them a degree of comfort, 112 00:06:55.240 --> 00:06:59.199 Yet they knew that their vigilance could never waver. I 113 00:06:59.199 --> 00:07:01.040 don't know A sat upon art from the main group 114 00:07:01.079 --> 00:07:04.279 one evening, his gaze fixed on the cave's entrance, as 115 00:07:04.279 --> 00:07:08.360 though expecting something to approach from the darkness beyond. His 116 00:07:08.480 --> 00:07:11.399 mind wandered to the memories of his family's last days, 117 00:07:12.000 --> 00:07:15.600 haunted by the feeling of vulnerability he had carried ever since, 118 00:07:16.360 --> 00:07:18.360 But as he looked around at the clan members who 119 00:07:18.360 --> 00:07:21.879 now surrounded him, he felt a deep sense of responsibility 120 00:07:21.879 --> 00:07:25.199 and purpose. This was his family now, and he would 121 00:07:25.199 --> 00:07:29.079 do whatever it took to keep them safe. Omaki, noticing 122 00:07:29.079 --> 00:07:33.360 his quiet isolation, approached him, lowering herself to sit beside him. 123 00:07:33.639 --> 00:07:37.120 You look troubled, Ida Noah, she said, her voice soft 124 00:07:37.279 --> 00:07:42.560 yet filled with concern. He hesitated, then nodded. Sometimes I 125 00:07:42.560 --> 00:07:47.120 think we're fooling ourselves. The humans, they don't stop, they 126 00:07:47.160 --> 00:07:51.759 don't forget. He looked at her, his gaze intense. But 127 00:07:51.879 --> 00:07:54.519 this time I won't let them take anyone from me, 128 00:07:55.079 --> 00:07:57.759 not again. You've been through more than any of us 129 00:07:57.839 --> 00:08:01.079 out of Noah, and your strength keeps us safe. But 130 00:08:01.199 --> 00:08:04.480 we must remember why we're here, because we want to live, 131 00:08:05.120 --> 00:08:08.800 not just survive. Our vigilance will keep us hidden, but 132 00:08:08.879 --> 00:08:12.720 our connections are shared purpose. That's what will keep us alive. 133 00:08:13.720 --> 00:08:17.480 Ata Noah look down her words, slowly sinking in he 134 00:08:17.560 --> 00:08:21.240 knew she was right that his fears, while valid, should 135 00:08:21.240 --> 00:08:23.759 not rob him of the peace they all deserved to find. 136 00:08:24.600 --> 00:08:28.360 He nodded a small gesture of acceptance, allowing himself to 137 00:08:28.399 --> 00:08:31.279 believe that this new sanctuary might indeed be a place 138 00:08:31.319 --> 00:08:35.600 of safety. With each passing day, the clan's routine solidified 139 00:08:35.919 --> 00:08:39.799 and a sense of normalcy began to return. Yet reminders 140 00:08:39.840 --> 00:08:42.679 of their need for caution were woven into each task, 141 00:08:43.240 --> 00:08:46.879 each movement outside the protection of the cave. Asha and 142 00:08:46.919 --> 00:08:50.440 Kboda continued their lookout shifts, rotating with the others to 143 00:08:50.559 --> 00:08:53.919 ensure that someone was always watching, ready to alert the 144 00:08:54.000 --> 00:08:57.600 klan at the first sign of danger. During a quiet 145 00:08:57.600 --> 00:09:00.200 moment on one of his shifts, Kaboda watched as a 146 00:09:00.240 --> 00:09:04.159 hawk circled above, its shadow, gliding across the valley below. 147 00:09:04.960 --> 00:09:07.519 He marveled at how it remained invisible until the moment 148 00:09:07.559 --> 00:09:11.799 it swooped down, striking its prey with precision and silence. 149 00:09:12.639 --> 00:09:15.440 The bird became a symbol for him, a reminder that 150 00:09:15.559 --> 00:09:18.559 to survive, the clan needed to become as elusive as 151 00:09:18.559 --> 00:09:21.799 the hawk, hidden until the moment they chose to be seen. 152 00:09:22.759 --> 00:09:25.360 As he kept his eyes on the horizon, he whispered 153 00:09:25.399 --> 00:09:28.879 to himself. We will stay hidden like you, We will 154 00:09:28.919 --> 00:09:32.960 remain out of reach. In the evenings, Omaki continued to 155 00:09:32.960 --> 00:09:36.759 gather the clan around, sharing stories and reinforcing the importance 156 00:09:36.799 --> 00:09:40.559 of their bond. Each tale she told reminded them of 157 00:09:40.600 --> 00:09:44.399 their resilience, of their ability to thrive no matter the odds. 158 00:09:45.120 --> 00:09:48.120 She spoke of ancestors who had traversed great distances to 159 00:09:48.159 --> 00:09:52.720 find safety, who had survived wars and natural disasters, all 160 00:09:52.759 --> 00:09:56.240 with the same resolve that now guided them. We are 161 00:09:56.279 --> 00:09:59.440 stronger than we know, she would say, her eyes shining 162 00:09:59.480 --> 00:10:03.240 with quiet pride. As long as we stand together, we 163 00:10:03.320 --> 00:10:08.440 are unstoppable. These gathering strengthened the clans resolve, solidifying the 164 00:10:08.519 --> 00:10:11.240 understanding that each of them played a crucial role in 165 00:10:11.279 --> 00:10:15.240 their survival. It was not just about hiding or escaping discovery. 166 00:10:15.720 --> 00:10:18.519 It was about creating a life filled with meaning where 167 00:10:18.600 --> 00:10:22.720 every moment mattered. Meanwhile, back with the Stone Ridge and 168 00:10:22.799 --> 00:10:25.879 River Bend clans, Eric and Varro carried the memory of 169 00:10:25.919 --> 00:10:29.799 their farewell with them as they resumed their lives. They 170 00:10:29.799 --> 00:10:32.840 could feel the distance from their family as a physical ache. 171 00:10:33.240 --> 00:10:35.840 Yet their decision to stay with Cora and Rena was 172 00:10:35.879 --> 00:10:38.559 fortified by the knowledge that they were helping to protect 173 00:10:38.600 --> 00:10:42.039 their clan in a different way. Each day, they shared 174 00:10:42.080 --> 00:10:45.200 the stories of their own clan struggles with their new families, 175 00:10:45.720 --> 00:10:48.759 urging them to remain cautious and respectful of the boundaries 176 00:10:48.799 --> 00:10:52.799 between their lives and the human world. One evening, as 177 00:10:52.799 --> 00:10:55.759 they sat around with Cora and Rena, Eric shared a 178 00:10:55.799 --> 00:10:58.639 memory of his last night in the cave, his voice 179 00:10:58.679 --> 00:11:02.399 filled with nostalgia. There's something about the way we lived 180 00:11:02.480 --> 00:11:05.799 back then that I'll always carry with me, the unity, 181 00:11:06.240 --> 00:11:10.240 the understanding that each of us mattered. Here it's different, 182 00:11:10.639 --> 00:11:13.080 but that connection is something I hope will build too. 183 00:11:14.120 --> 00:11:18.240 Rena took his hand, her expression filled with admiration. We'll 184 00:11:18.279 --> 00:11:22.159 create that unity, Eric, but we'll do it here together, 185 00:11:23.000 --> 00:11:26.519 and with every step forward we honor what you've left behind. 186 00:11:27.720 --> 00:11:30.720 Cora placed her hand over Varro's, her gaze filled with 187 00:11:30.840 --> 00:11:34.159 quiet determination. Your journey is our journey. 188 00:11:34.159 --> 00:11:34.399 Now. 189 00:11:34.840 --> 00:11:37.799 We'll protect this life we're building together, and we'll keep 190 00:11:37.840 --> 00:11:41.600 each other safe. As the night deepened, Eric and Varro 191 00:11:41.720 --> 00:11:44.639 felt a sense of peace settle over them, the knowledge 192 00:11:44.639 --> 00:11:48.080 that they could honor their past while embracing their new lives. 193 00:11:48.600 --> 00:11:51.480 Though the separation from their clan weighed heavily on them, 194 00:11:51.840 --> 00:11:54.360 they knew their vigilance and love would continue to guide 195 00:11:54.360 --> 00:11:58.279 them all. The dawn light was muted, soft shadows spilling 196 00:11:58.320 --> 00:12:00.919 over the rugged terrain. As Eric Anda made their way 197 00:12:00.919 --> 00:12:04.279 through a dense grove of trees. The air was crisp 198 00:12:04.320 --> 00:12:06.919 and filled with the familiar sense of pine and earth. 199 00:12:07.399 --> 00:12:10.720 But there was something else beneath it, a faint, acrid 200 00:12:10.759 --> 00:12:15.799 smell that lingered in the air smoke. Eric paused, his 201 00:12:15.879 --> 00:12:19.720 senses sharpening as he scanned the horizon. The subtle aroma 202 00:12:19.759 --> 00:12:23.120 of burning wood mixed with the crisp morning air, an 203 00:12:23.200 --> 00:12:27.360 unnatural presence in the forest. His pulse quickened, and he 204 00:12:27.399 --> 00:12:30.559 glanced at Rena, who had noticed it too, her gaze 205 00:12:30.600 --> 00:12:34.480 distant and alert. Do you smell it? She whispered, her 206 00:12:34.519 --> 00:12:40.039 tone laced with concern. Eric nodded, his jaw set humans 207 00:12:40.600 --> 00:12:45.440 there nearby. They continued onward in silence, ears tuned to 208 00:12:45.480 --> 00:12:49.600 the sounds around them, each step careful and measured. Soon, 209 00:12:49.960 --> 00:12:52.919 the faint hum of engines echoed through the forest, growing 210 00:12:52.960 --> 00:12:57.000 louder as they drew closer. The unnatural sound grated against 211 00:12:57.039 --> 00:13:00.559 the tranquility of the woods, a jarring and true that 212 00:13:00.639 --> 00:13:03.799 set both their nerves on edge. This was not the 213 00:13:03.799 --> 00:13:06.720 first time they had heard humans encroaching upon their territory, 214 00:13:07.279 --> 00:13:10.200 but the persistence of the noise and the smoke suggested 215 00:13:10.240 --> 00:13:14.159 that this was more than just passing hikers. Later that morning, 216 00:13:14.200 --> 00:13:16.440 they met up with Varro and Cora, who had taken 217 00:13:16.480 --> 00:13:20.480 a different path to survey the surrounding area. Varro's expression 218 00:13:20.559 --> 00:13:23.279 was tense as he looked at Eric, confirming what they 219 00:13:23.320 --> 00:13:27.240 both feared. They're pushing farther in every day, Varro said, 220 00:13:27.559 --> 00:13:30.840 casting a wary glance at the distant ridges. And it's 221 00:13:30.879 --> 00:13:33.720 not just one or two campers. I saw at least 222 00:13:33.759 --> 00:13:38.159 three separate fires smoldering in the valley. Cora crossed her arms, 223 00:13:38.320 --> 00:13:42.960 her eyes flashing with anger and concern. They're relentless. It's 224 00:13:43.000 --> 00:13:45.600 as if they know we're here, as if they're seeking 225 00:13:45.679 --> 00:13:49.240 us out. The four of them exchanged a look, each 226 00:13:49.279 --> 00:13:52.840 feeling the weight of the unspoken threat. This wasn't an 227 00:13:52.960 --> 00:13:57.759 ordinary intrusion. The humans were persistent, methodical, and relentless in 228 00:13:57.799 --> 00:14:02.519 their pursuit, and the signs all pointed to one grim possibility. 229 00:14:02.639 --> 00:14:07.639 The humans were hunting something or someone specific. We should 230 00:14:07.679 --> 00:14:11.679 warn the clans, Rena said finally, her voice steady. Everyone 231 00:14:11.759 --> 00:14:15.240 needs to know just how close they're getting. Eric nodded, 232 00:14:15.639 --> 00:14:19.360 his expression hardening with resolve. We need to prepare for 233 00:14:19.399 --> 00:14:22.200 whatever comes next. This isn't the time for us to 234 00:14:22.240 --> 00:14:26.360 be caught off guard. By midday, both the stone Ridge 235 00:14:26.360 --> 00:14:29.879 and Riverbend clans had gathered in their respective council clearings, 236 00:14:30.200 --> 00:14:34.200 leaders and scouts discussing what was becoming an increasingly urgent situation. 237 00:14:35.320 --> 00:14:39.159 Eric and Varro, along with Rena and Cora, presented their findings, 238 00:14:39.519 --> 00:14:42.840 detailing the presence of the humans, their fires, and the 239 00:14:42.919 --> 00:14:47.480 unmistakable sound of engines. The stone Ridge elders listened closely. 240 00:14:47.799 --> 00:14:51.600 Their face is grim and contemplative. Mira, an elder known 241 00:14:51.600 --> 00:14:55.320 for her cautious nature, spoke first, her gaze steady as 242 00:14:55.320 --> 00:14:59.480 she addressed the group, and stay tuned for more Sasquatch 243 00:14:59.480 --> 00:15:06.080 ott to see right back after these messages. This land 244 00:15:06.120 --> 00:15:09.679 has always been our home, Mira said, her voice laced 245 00:15:09.720 --> 00:15:13.960 with quiet defiance. But we cannot ignore the signs. If 246 00:15:13.960 --> 00:15:17.799 the humans are actively seeking us, we must consider every option, 247 00:15:18.399 --> 00:15:23.360 including the possibility of relocating. Corus stepped forward, her voice 248 00:15:23.399 --> 00:15:27.840 calm yet strong relocation may not be enough. These humans 249 00:15:27.840 --> 00:15:33.000 aren't just wandering through. They're organized, equipped and determined. We 250 00:15:33.120 --> 00:15:36.080 need to think defensively to set up barriers and ways 251 00:15:36.080 --> 00:15:39.879 to evade them if they get too close. At riverbend, 252 00:15:40.120 --> 00:15:43.639 similar sentiments arose, though the tension was punctuated by a 253 00:15:43.639 --> 00:15:48.679 fierce resolve to defend their territory. One of the younger hunters, Rake, 254 00:15:49.039 --> 00:15:53.039 voiced a more aggressive opinion. We can't hide forever. Rake said, 255 00:15:53.279 --> 00:15:56.840 his tone heated. If they're coming for us, then maybe 256 00:15:56.840 --> 00:15:59.279 it's time we show them we're not to be trifled with. 257 00:16:00.320 --> 00:16:03.480 Rina placed a calming hand on his shoulder. We mustn't 258 00:16:03.519 --> 00:16:07.240 underestimate their strength. The humans have weapons and technology we 259 00:16:07.279 --> 00:16:12.000 can't match. Attacking them directly would only bring more of them. 260 00:16:12.399 --> 00:16:15.440 Varro backed her up, recounting the warnings his family had 261 00:16:15.480 --> 00:16:19.639 given him an eric before their separation. I know it's difficult, 262 00:16:19.960 --> 00:16:22.960 but we have to think of survival first. Our goal 263 00:16:23.039 --> 00:16:26.080 is to keep the clan safe, not to seek conflict. 264 00:16:26.679 --> 00:16:29.000 We'll prepare to defend ourselves if it comes to that, 265 00:16:29.559 --> 00:16:33.639 but we must avoid drawing attention. The two clans ultimately 266 00:16:33.720 --> 00:16:37.039 reached a consensus to begin preparing defenses while remaining as 267 00:16:37.120 --> 00:16:40.600 hidden as possible. Their goal would be to evade detection, 268 00:16:41.039 --> 00:16:44.120 setting up strategies to mislead the humans and keep their 269 00:16:44.159 --> 00:16:49.279 sanctuaries concealed. But despite their unity, an undercurrent of fear 270 00:16:49.320 --> 00:16:52.159 and tension rippled through the clans as they braced for 271 00:16:52.240 --> 00:16:56.440 what seemed to be an inevitable clash. Determined to understand 272 00:16:56.480 --> 00:16:59.320 the human's tactics, Eric and Varro set out the next 273 00:16:59.440 --> 00:17:02.639 day with two other scouts, Jerk from Stone Ridge and 274 00:17:02.720 --> 00:17:06.720 Celia from Riverbend. Their mission was to observe the encampments 275 00:17:06.720 --> 00:17:10.039 from a safe distance, gathering any information that might help 276 00:17:10.079 --> 00:17:13.880 the clans avoid detection. The four of them moved in silence, 277 00:17:14.319 --> 00:17:16.920 blending into the shadows as they crept closer to where 278 00:17:16.920 --> 00:17:20.119 the humans had set up camp. From their vantage point 279 00:17:20.119 --> 00:17:23.119 on a ridge overlooking the valley, they could see rows 280 00:17:23.160 --> 00:17:26.160 of tents and vehicles, some of them marked with insignia 281 00:17:26.200 --> 00:17:30.160 that suggested a formal organization. Equipment was laid out in 282 00:17:30.240 --> 00:17:35.480 meticulous order, maps, portable devices, and rows of strange instruments. 283 00:17:36.400 --> 00:17:39.839 One man in particular, clad in tactical gear, gestured to 284 00:17:39.880 --> 00:17:44.119 a map, explaining something to the others. His movements were precise, 285 00:17:44.480 --> 00:17:49.480 his demeanor suggesting a seasoned leader around him. Others listened intently, 286 00:17:49.880 --> 00:17:53.119 nodding as he gave instructions. The sight sent a shiver 287 00:17:53.240 --> 00:17:57.079 down Eric's spine. This was no casual group of enthusiasts. 288 00:17:57.480 --> 00:18:02.160 These people were prepared, systematic, and well organized. Look at 289 00:18:02.160 --> 00:18:06.599 their equipment, Varro whispered, his face, grim. They've got everything, 290 00:18:07.160 --> 00:18:12.519 tracking devices, communication tools, even drones. Jeric shook his head 291 00:18:12.519 --> 00:18:16.279 in disbelief. They're more prepared than I feared. If they're 292 00:18:16.279 --> 00:18:19.000 this organized, they won't stop until they found what they're 293 00:18:19.039 --> 00:18:23.079 looking for. Eric's gaze hardened as he watched the humans, 294 00:18:23.440 --> 00:18:26.720 his mind racing. He knew they had to act quickly. 295 00:18:27.319 --> 00:18:29.799 Every day that passed meant the humans were one step 296 00:18:29.839 --> 00:18:33.640 closer to discovering their people, one step closer to shattering 297 00:18:33.680 --> 00:18:37.079 the peace they had tried so hard to preserve. We 298 00:18:37.160 --> 00:18:40.039 need to report this back to the clans, Eric whispered, 299 00:18:40.519 --> 00:18:44.119 They need to understand just how serious this is. With 300 00:18:44.200 --> 00:18:47.559 a final wary glance at the encampment below, the scouts 301 00:18:47.599 --> 00:18:51.119 turned and retreated into the forest, their movements silent and 302 00:18:51.160 --> 00:18:55.200 swift as they returned to deliver their grim findings. Upon 303 00:18:55.279 --> 00:18:58.519 hearing the scouts report the stone Ridge and Riverbend clans 304 00:18:58.559 --> 00:19:02.599 wasted no time and strengthen their defenses. Leaders from both 305 00:19:02.640 --> 00:19:05.599 clans worked together to set up escape routes through the 306 00:19:05.640 --> 00:19:09.799 densest parts of the forest, pathways concealed by natural foliage 307 00:19:09.799 --> 00:19:13.200 that would allow them to retreat quickly if needed. Cora 308 00:19:13.279 --> 00:19:17.079 and Rena, alongside other skilled gatherers, took charge of preparing 309 00:19:17.079 --> 00:19:21.640 supplies for an emergency. They stored herbs, dried foods, and 310 00:19:21.720 --> 00:19:25.440 other essentials, and hidden caches throughout the forest, each one 311 00:19:25.519 --> 00:19:29.000 marked subtly so that only the clans would know their locations. 312 00:19:29.599 --> 00:19:34.079 Their preparations were quiet yet thorough, each cash carefully concealed 313 00:19:34.079 --> 00:19:38.519 to avoid detection. Varro and Eric meanwhile coordinated with the 314 00:19:38.519 --> 00:19:42.880 scouts to establish silent communication systems, signals made from bird 315 00:19:42.920 --> 00:19:46.000 calls or patterns of stones that would alert clan members 316 00:19:46.000 --> 00:19:49.240 if the humans drew too close. The signals were simple 317 00:19:49.240 --> 00:19:51.759 but effective, and they hoped they would allow them to 318 00:19:51.759 --> 00:19:55.720 stay one step ahead. During one of these preparations, Cora 319 00:19:55.880 --> 00:20:01.279 glanced at Varro, her eyes filled with determination. Faced hardships before, 320 00:20:01.880 --> 00:20:06.839 but this this feels different. Varro nodded his jaw set 321 00:20:06.880 --> 00:20:10.440 with resolve. It is different, but we have each other, 322 00:20:10.839 --> 00:20:13.839 and that's something the humans can't take from us. As 323 00:20:13.839 --> 00:20:18.599 long as we're united, will endure. Rena, overhearing their conversation, 324 00:20:18.759 --> 00:20:22.000 placed a hand on Eric's shoulder. This won't break us. 325 00:20:22.519 --> 00:20:26.680 If anything, it's only made us stronger. Eric looked at her, 326 00:20:26.839 --> 00:20:30.319 his face softening despite the tension. Then we hold fast 327 00:20:30.680 --> 00:20:34.039 no matter what comes. We won't give them what they want. 328 00:20:34.759 --> 00:20:38.000 Days passed and the clans adapted to their new routines, 329 00:20:38.519 --> 00:20:42.200 every member vigilant and prepared for whatever might come. Yet 330 00:20:42.200 --> 00:20:45.279 the signs of the human's presence grew more constant, the 331 00:20:45.400 --> 00:20:48.640 roar of ATVs echoing through the valleys, the sin of 332 00:20:48.680 --> 00:20:52.440 smoke lingering on the breeze. Each night, the clans waited 333 00:20:52.480 --> 00:20:55.799 in tense anticipation, braced for the moment when the humans 334 00:20:55.839 --> 00:20:59.480 would draw close enough to confront. Late one evening, as 335 00:20:59.480 --> 00:21:02.440 the sounds of engines grew loud in the distance, Eric 336 00:21:02.480 --> 00:21:04.759 and Varro climbed to one of the lookout points on 337 00:21:04.799 --> 00:21:08.119 a nearby ridge. From there, they could see a faint 338 00:21:08.160 --> 00:21:11.720 glow on the horizon, evidence of the human's fires burning 339 00:21:11.759 --> 00:21:15.480 through the night. The sight filled them with a grim determination, 340 00:21:16.119 --> 00:21:18.839 a reminder of the sacrifices they had made to protect 341 00:21:18.880 --> 00:21:21.839 their families and the lives they had chosen to build. 342 00:21:22.799 --> 00:21:26.599 Cora joined them, her face drawn but resolute. She placed 343 00:21:26.599 --> 00:21:30.079 a hand on Varro's arm, her voice steady, no matter 344 00:21:30.119 --> 00:21:34.720 what happens, we'll face it together. Rena, standing beside Eric, 345 00:21:34.799 --> 00:21:38.720 added softly, were stronger than they realize, and were more 346 00:21:38.720 --> 00:21:42.160 connected to this land than they'll ever be. The four 347 00:21:42.200 --> 00:21:44.920 of them stood in silence, their eyes fixed on the 348 00:21:44.960 --> 00:21:49.400 distant fires, their hearts filled with a shared determination. They 349 00:21:49.440 --> 00:21:53.400 would protect their people, their home, and each other, no 350 00:21:53.519 --> 00:21:56.799 matter the cost. In the depths of the forest, the 351 00:21:56.839 --> 00:22:01.519 clans waited, united and unyielding, ppared to defend their sanctuary 352 00:22:01.559 --> 00:22:04.880 against the encroaching threat. The tension in the air was 353 00:22:04.920 --> 00:22:08.559 thick and unspoken, promised that if forced, they would fight 354 00:22:08.640 --> 00:22:11.160 for the lives they had built, even in the face 355 00:22:11.200 --> 00:22:15.000 of an unstoppable force. The forest was still under the 356 00:22:15.079 --> 00:22:19.160 light of a waning moon, shadows stretching long across the ground. 357 00:22:19.480 --> 00:22:22.759 As two juvenile members of the River Bend clan, Caylin 358 00:22:22.839 --> 00:22:25.599 and Darrik, crept along the tree line near a human 359 00:22:25.640 --> 00:22:29.000 camp site, the scent of smoke and cooked food wafted 360 00:22:29.039 --> 00:22:33.799 through the air, unfamiliar yet oddly enticing, drawing them in 361 00:22:33.880 --> 00:22:38.119 despite the stern warnings from their elders. Kaylen crouched low, 362 00:22:38.480 --> 00:22:41.359 his eyes gleaming with excitement as he observed the humans 363 00:22:41.400 --> 00:22:45.680 gathered around their fire, their faces illuminated by the flickering flames. 364 00:22:46.599 --> 00:22:50.079 Dark shifted beside him, barely able to contain his eagerness. 365 00:22:50.720 --> 00:22:55.839 They're just sitting there, completely unaware. Dark whispered, Let's make 366 00:22:55.880 --> 00:22:59.720 them remember tonight. Caylan replied with a mischievous grin, and 367 00:22:59.759 --> 00:23:03.200 with out hesitation, he broke a few low branches, placing 368 00:23:03.240 --> 00:23:05.640 them deliberately near the trail that led away from the 369 00:23:05.680 --> 00:23:10.240 camp site. The snapping sounds echoed through the stillness, catching 370 00:23:10.319 --> 00:23:13.799 the attention of one of the men. Encouraged by the reaction, 371 00:23:14.200 --> 00:23:16.720 Kaylan threw a small stone that landed near the edge 372 00:23:16.759 --> 00:23:20.119 of the campfire, earning a startled exclamation from one of 373 00:23:20.160 --> 00:23:24.799 the humans. Dark chuckled quietly, his confidence growing as he 374 00:23:24.839 --> 00:23:29.359 began to make low, howling sounds, followed by quick rhythmic 375 00:23:29.480 --> 00:23:34.200 mouth pops. The humans sat up visibly, uneasy, their heads 376 00:23:34.240 --> 00:23:37.160 darting around as they searched for the source of the sounds, 377 00:23:37.720 --> 00:23:40.200 but just as the juveniles were preparing to slip away, 378 00:23:40.720 --> 00:23:44.559 the humans pulled out flashlights, high powered beams that sliced 379 00:23:44.559 --> 00:23:47.839 through the dark, illuminating the tree line with a brightness 380 00:23:47.880 --> 00:23:52.200 that made Calan and dark freeze. These were not ordinary flashlights. 381 00:23:52.640 --> 00:23:55.079 The light was far more powerful than anything they had 382 00:23:55.079 --> 00:23:59.000 seen before. The beams swept over them, and for a heartbeat, 383 00:23:59.359 --> 00:24:03.640 Calan and Darkar found themselves exposed, their forms briefly visible 384 00:24:03.640 --> 00:24:07.319 in the light. The realization hit them like a thunderclap. 385 00:24:07.759 --> 00:24:11.640 The humans could see them run. Kaylan hissed, his voice 386 00:24:11.680 --> 00:24:14.480 taut with panic as he shoved dark toward the shadows. 387 00:24:15.359 --> 00:24:18.480 The two juveniles sprinted away, their hearts pounding as they 388 00:24:18.559 --> 00:24:21.640 ducked and weaved through the trees, the distant sound of 389 00:24:21.680 --> 00:24:24.880 shouting and more lights chasing them until they were finally 390 00:24:25.000 --> 00:24:29.000 enveloped by the forest's darkness. By morning, word of the 391 00:24:29.079 --> 00:24:32.519 juvenile's encounter had spread through the River Bend clan, igniting 392 00:24:32.599 --> 00:24:36.400 a wave of fear and frustration. The elders were furious, 393 00:24:36.599 --> 00:24:40.240 scolding Kaylin and Darrik for their recklessness, while others in 394 00:24:40.279 --> 00:24:44.519 the clan whispered anxiously about the humans. Increasing vigilance. What 395 00:24:44.640 --> 00:24:47.519 had started as a harmless prank had now escalated into 396 00:24:47.599 --> 00:24:50.839 a potential threat to their survival. One of the River 397 00:24:50.880 --> 00:24:54.559 Bend leaders, Collina, gathered the clan members for an emergency meeting, 398 00:24:55.039 --> 00:24:58.799 her expression severe as she addressed the group. The humans 399 00:24:58.799 --> 00:25:02.799 are closer than we realized, she began, her tone grim, 400 00:25:03.119 --> 00:25:05.680 and Caitlin and Daryk's actions may have put us all 401 00:25:05.720 --> 00:25:09.160