eports from a Journeys to Symzonia
e traveled west of Nanking to a remote village which we will not disclose at this time
for the protection of its people. Not far beyond the village walls are a small set of
hillocks. Within these hills we were directed to an excavation. The people of the
village were most amenable and forthcoming with aid both physical and informative.
They informed us that they had been assisting those who wish to undertake the journey
for many years. Providing provisions to both groups entering as well as exiting the
portal. The locals explained that the journey would require no less then 40 days to
complete the travel to the far side of the portal. They went on to explain that water
would be availed at many point along the journey in collection pools, but that all other
provisions would need to be carried. They went further to explain that as no fodder
would be available for animals, that only beast intended for eventual slaughter should
enter the portal. A guide and several porters were provided. The disposition
of our animals and remaining equipment and provisions was initially in question.
Some of the party felt that the locals could not be trusted for a time of no less then three mouths. Straws were drawn to determine who of the expedition would remain to guard the cache which would remain.
e purchased several cows to pull sledges with the provision and equipment we deemed
needed for our trek. After leaving written instructions and wills with the expedition
members who would remain behind we bid them adieu. Likewise our porters and guides
consoled their families as we made our way out of the village. The trip to the
portal was short but filled with a great weight in the air, as we knew not when or if
would ever see the surface again. The out most portion of the portal was of a red clay, but soon
entered a natural cave of limestone. The natural accretions that had collected on
the floor of this cave had been cleared away to facilitate passage. The guide instructed
us to extinguish our lamps one by one as our eyes became familiar with the lowered
illumination. The pace was very brisk with cows finding it difficult to maintain the pace.
