the valley of the unicorns

8/9/2019 The Valley of the Unicorns

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The Valley of TheUnicorns

There Was a little unicorn. She had everything she could ever want or need. She had herown pond. She had her very own field that she loved to romp around in. She never had toworry about food. She even had her very own house. What more could she even want. Her

friends were kind and helpful.

One day she was sitting by the banks of her pond. The water was clear and still. She lookedinto the pond and she saw another unicorn. This unicorn looked exactly like her. She ran totell all her friends that she had found another unicorn. They all rushed over to the pond. Sheshowed them the other unicorn. They broke out in a chorus of laughter they all told her You

silly unicorn. That is not another unicorn that is a reflection of you. Then they all walkedaway laughing the whole way. The little unicorn was saddened by this. But, day after day

she came back to the pod just to see if the other unicorn was still there. She slowly began torealize that her friends were right. She became saddened by this. As the days went by she

became more and more saddened. She even stopped going back to her pond.

When she stopped eating , the kind old man who cared for the animals came up and askedher what was wrong. The little unicorn went on to tell her story. The old man kind of

chuckled and said, You silly unicorn. You are not missing your reflection or even scared ofyour reflection, but you are missing others who are just like you.

He began to tell the story of how he had come to rescue her. He told her of a bad man wholiked trapping animals just for fun and personal gain. He told her that at the time she was

even smaller than she was now. He told her how he had spent money to buy her from him.

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He said he would look into the place where he had bought her and try to find outwhere the bad man had actual caught her.

The old man spent many days and nights shifting through his paperwork. He foundout where he had bought the unicorn. He put his daughter in charge of his menagerie

of animals and set out. He arrived at the marketplace where he had purchased thelittle unicorn. He began making inquires about his little unicorn. His enquires caughtthe attention of a local sheriff. He was immediately arrested and brought before thesheriff. Once before the sheriff, the sheriff asked him, Why are you inquiring aboutunicorns? Do you wish to or plan on paying someone to capture one for you? If you

do intend to do this, know this it will result in a very hefty fine or jail time or both.

Oh no, it is nothing like that at all. exclaimed the old man.

Well, you then what is your purpose in asking these questions? asked the sheriff.

Well, you see many years ago I Came to this market to by some goods. I ran acrossa man and he had what looked like a very tiny, frail horse. It appeared that he had

not taken the best of care with the animal. I agreed to take the animal off his hands,for a price of course. I took her home with me and cared for her. She has grown

much in the years since. She is now healthy and strong and very beautiful. I cameher at this time to see if I could find the man who sold her to me or to see if any of thelocals may know of a place where there where more unicorns. I wish to try and return

her to the place where she was caught. the old man replied.

The sheriff looked at the old man and said, So you admit to having purchased aunicorn.

The old man looked at the sheriff and said, It appeared to me to be a small horse.Her horn had not yet grown in and she needed a friend to help her.

The sheriff puzzled a moment, I see. Now you wish to return her to the placewhere she was caught.

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Yes, the old man replied.

Why wait so many years to do this? asked the sheriff.

It was not till a few days ago, that she became saddened about being the onlyunicorn. It seems she discovered her reflection in the pond. She became saddened

to learn that it was not another unicorn. I may not find another unicorn, but I can atleast return her to the spot where she was caught. Maybe she will remembersomething to help her deal with this or she will find another unicorn and return to her

rightful home. replied the old man.

The sheriff thought about the old mans words, Ok, I will take you upon your word. Iwill release you. You will return in three days. You will bring your unicorn with you.Upon your return, I will send you with one of my men to the spot I believe she could

have been caught at. All this providing your story holds true.

Thank you so much, replied the old man.

The old man quickly returned home. He packed for the journey and made all thenecessary preparations. He went and found his little unicorn. She was inside her

house that he had built for her. He told her about the journey that they would begin.He asked her what she thought of this. She said, Thank you so much. The two of

them set off to the marketplace. Just after nightfall on the third day, the old manknocked upon the sheriffs door. A gruff looking guard answered the door. Do you

not realize the hour upon which you come knocking upon someones door. Go awaycome back in the morning. he said.

The old man stuck his foot in the door as the guard was closing it, Please sir, I mustspeak with the sheriff tonight as tomorrow will be too late. It is not safe for me to

travel in the daylight with my companion. Beside the Sheriff is expecting me.

The guard mumbled inaudible beneath his breath and showed the two of them in tothe foyer, Wait here. he said gruffly. The old man nodded his head. The guard

disappeared into the back of the house. The old man was to scared and nervous tomove. The guard appeared a short time later. Follow me. he said. The old man

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Followed the guard into a cozy living room with a fire roaring upon the hearth. Henow found himself in front of the sheriff once again.

I almost gave up upon you old man. the sheriff said.

My apologies, sheriff. I was afraid of entering the village till after dark. Especially

with my traveling companion. the old man replied.

The tiny unicorn emerged slowly, shyly from behind the old man and stood in front ofthe sheriff. Well, I see you were indeed true to your word. the sheriff said.

The sheriff took the little unicorn aside out of earshot of the old man, but still withineyesight. He questioned the little unicorn in great detail. She gladly and willingly toldthe sheriff everything. She told of her friends an her new home and of the care givento her by the old man. Satisfied, the sheriff rose and approached the old man. You

two will be my guests for the night. In the morning, you will set off with one of mymost trusted guards.

The old man agreed and the sheriff set them up in one of the guest rooms. He evenprepared a bed for the little unicorn next to the old mans bed. Just before dawn thesheriff came and woke them. It is time to set off. I am in agreement with you that itwould be for the best, if the unicorn is not seen. People would not like that idea onebit, as I have been real strict in regards to having unicorns in captivity. I know and

you know that you bought her for her own good. And we both know that now you aresimply trying to help her find her home.

The old man replied, Thank you sheriff. I promise to try to help her find her home.Know this if we do find her home, I do intend to let her choose. If she should decide

to stay or if she wants to return with me.

The sheriff nodded and they both shook hands. The old man promised to stop backby upon his return. They set off together. In the marketplace they met up with thesheriffs guard. The little unicorn became uneasy and very terrified. The old man

knelt down beside the little unicorn. Whats the matter little one? he asked.

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I remember this place. I do not like this place at all. she replied.

You are safe with me little one. I will not let any harm come to you. I promise we willonly be here a short while. The old man said.

The sheriff leaned over and he said, Besides your friend, you also have Gustafo. He

is very brave between the two of them and myself you will be safe. We do only haveto be here awhile then you, Gustafo, and your friend will board a ship which will takeyou home.

Gustafo said, Yes, all this is true. I have been asked to watch over you till you havebeen returned home.

The little unicorn looked from on man too the next one. She looked into the faces ofthe three men. She agreed to continue on with them. They finally arrived at the ship.

The little unicorn walked unsteadily up the gang plank. Once on board the terrorinsider did not calm any. The old man knelt down beside her and wrapped his armsaround the trembling unicorn. You are remembering being on a ship similar to theone? he asked. All the little unicorn could do was nod her head. You were keptbelow desk werent you? again she just nodded her head. I tell you what we willmake a bed upon the main deck and you and I will sleep outside. We will only go

below decks if it becomes too bad upon the sea. She nodded her head inagreement. The old man set out about making beds above deck for the two of them.

The order came to set sail. They cast the ship off and head out to sea. The sailingwas smooth that first few days and the little unicorn was finally starting to relax a bit.Suddenly, the sea became slightly rougher. The next day a full gale had set in. The

old man moved the little unicorn and himself below decks for both of their safety.

Gustafo called the old man to come to his chambers. Once they were both insideand the latch was secured. He removed a map from a box then he handed it to thelittle old man. If this storm becomes much worse, and we happen to not make it.

You now have an identical copy of my map. There is an X upon the map. I will meetup with you there. If I do not meet up with you. Do not wait for me. If I make it thereand see no sign of you. I will try my best to find you. he said. The old man took the

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Map and secured I his pouch. Both men shook hands and promised.

The old man returned to the little unicorn. He could see that she was even more terrifiedthan ever. He made a bed upon the floor and he gathered her into his lap. He held onto hertight. The storm seemed to grow more and more with each passing hour/ The ship shudder

to and fro violently. Every board seemed to creak and groan. It seemed with every creakand groan the little unicorn was trying to snuggling closer and closer to the old man. The oldman fashioned a harness of sorts and secured it around the unicorn. Then tied the loose end

securely around him. Then he placed a blanket around her. This seemed to momentarilycalm the unicorn. Suddenly, there was a loud clamor above desks. Then there where loudcracking sounds. It happened so fast there was no time to think all they could do was react.

One moment they were securely below decks, the next they were thrown into the ragingwaters. The storm went away as quickly as it had started. The old man woken to the morning

rays blinding his eyes. He now found himself upon a beach of white sand. His first instinctwas to reach for the rope he had tied around himself. He found that the rope was cut and

frayed. He jumped up and looked around. He hoped and prayed the little unicorn wasalright. He spotted her a short ways from him. He rushed over to her and fell upon his kneesbeside her.

He reached out and touched her. She moved slightly. He realized she was badly hurt, butshe was alive. He spotted a shady spot at the end of the beach. He picked her up gently

and carried her too it. Once satisfied, he stood up and looked up and down the beach. Hespotted a figure lying on the beach. He rushed over to it. Once he got close enough, he

found it was Gustafo. It took almost all of his strength, but somehow he managed to drag himto the spot where the little unicorn was. The old man knew that they would need shelter,

food, water, and the means to start a fire. He also knew he would need some kind of first aidfor both of them. He knew he could not leave either of them alone for long. He surveyed thebeach once again. He spotted the remains of the ship lodged in the breakers. He knew he

could make it there and salvage some items from it.

Gustafo sat up slowly, Glad to see you both made it.

The little old man turned, Do you feel strong enough to watch over her. I Think I can make it

back to the ship and get some supplies.

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Gustafo nodded his head, I have my sword. I may not be able to stay awake long,but we will need some supplies.

The little old man said, I will be as quick as possible. He turned and started outtoward the ship. It took even less time than he thought it would. When he arrived atthe ship he noticed it was leaning to one side. He swam around to the side that waslower in the water. He spotted a lifeboat floating close by. He latched the lifeboat tothe rail and climbed on bard. He made quick work of gathering food, water and theirpersonal possessions. He found some blankets and tools. He also found a second

lifeboat. He now turned his attention to medical and shelter. It took him awhile but hefinally found the medicine chest. He then took his knife and started slashing some ofthe sails. Then he slowly and carefully lowered everything onto the two lifeboats. Hesecurely lashed the two of them together and started for the shore. When he arrived

there he found Gustafo standing there waiting for him.

Here let me help you. We need to get both of these up there and secure everythingfor the night. he said

Yes, I agree. I am glad to see you and about. I do not know how many crew wereon board with us. However; I did find three still on board. Im afraid there was

nothing I could do for them. the little old man said.

Well, let me see. Three that you know are dead, me and you that makes five. Thatmeans out of a crew of eight, and four passengers. There are still five missing. Ihave not moved from that spot. So there is the possibility that there may still be

some on the beach or they may have perished in the sea. Gustafo said.

Well lets secure this stuff up there. You can began setting up camp. I will walk thebeach head as see if I happen upon any of the others. the little man said.

Gustafo nodded his head. Together the two of them dragged the two lifeboats up towhere the little unicorn was resting. They lashed them securely to the trees. The

little old man checked on the little unicorn and dressed her wounds. Then he stoodand began walking the beach head. Gustafo began by inventorying the supplies. He

smiled when he notice that the old man seemed to have thought of everything.

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He began setting about preparing a fire and making a shelter and preparing somefood.

Meanwhile, the little old man was carefully picking his way down the beachhead. Henoticed something in the water next to a very craggy rock. He moved slowly aroundthe rock. He finally could se what it was. It was one of the crew. He was bloody and

partially lodged into the rock face. He worked quickly to free the man. He was alive,just barely. He dragged the man to the campsite.

While Gustafo tended to the mans injuries, the little old man went back down to the

beachhead. He was now energized at finding on more survivor. There were still fourunaccounted for. Close to the same craggy rock the little old man found two moresurvivors. He moved cautiously towards them. He found one of the was barely

holding onto the other. He quickly and gently plucked the one out of the mans grasp

and dragged him up onto the beach. The little old man left him there on the beach

and went back for the other man. There was no telling how long he could hold on tothe rock. The old man helped free the second ban and they both slowly made it back

to the beach. The second survivor could barely walk, but he insisted upon helpingdrag the other man to the campsite.

The old man knew there was still two more and he felt that the could be alive. Hehurried back down to the beachhead. He made his way slowly down the breakersthat formed the last of the beachhead. He began to realize time was running out.

The tide was beginning to come in now. He was about to head back when he spotted

the captain. He made it over to him slowly. Together they struggled against theraging tide. The finally made it back to the beach. The both collapsed upon the sand

in sheer exhaustion. The was really coming in quickly now. The little old man feltsomething brush up against his foot. He sat up suddenly for he was not sure exactlywhat it was. It was the final crew member. He crawled over at felt for a pulse. Therewas none. The captain looked at the old man. There was no need for exchange ofwords the looks between them where enough. The dragged the man away from the

camp to another spot of trees. The old man turned to go back to camp.

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When he did he found Gustafo standing there with a shovel and one of the othersthat the old man had managed to pluck from the sea. Gustafo said, Weve got this,

you have done enough. Go tend to your needs.

The old man did as was asked. He turned toward camp and tended to his woundsand nourished himself with the food Gustafo had prepared. Then he went to check

on the little unicorn. She was starting to perk up a bit. After the others were donewith the burial, the group gathered round the campfire. It was decided right then and

there that tomorrow they would go and retrieve additional supplies from thewreckages. The captain needed some of his maps and instruments to determine

where exactly they were. He said, Last check we were almost to the island that we

needed to get too, but without my instruments and maps I can not confirm this. Itwould be pointless to search this island for what we seek, if it turns out that it is

indeed the wrong island.

It was agreed. No one wanted to spend any more time here than was needed.Another day though would better for those who were injured. We also realized that togo exploring some unknown island would also be pointless. We settled best that we

could for the night. The next morning the party roused out of bed. Together thedecided who would do what today. It would be my day to watch the little unicorn.

Gustafo and two others and the captain would go to the ship. Two of the other menthat was left behind would wonder together around the campsite and just a bit into the

grove of trees looking for wood and food. The little old man was glad to just sit anddo nothing. He did not realize yesterday that he too had been injured. He set about

tending to the necessary things around camp and waited for all to return.

Meanwhile, the party that had set off into the unknown wondered slowly up and downthe beach. Combing the shores for anything the sea had decided to cast off from herdepths. They found several large pieces of driftwood that could be used as firewood.,several different varieties of shell fish that could be cooked to provide much needed

food. They wondered into the woods. Thy had to find a source of fresh water ofsome kind. They found several large coconut trees and a couple of other fruit

bearing trees. They collected some of these and brought them back to the camp.

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Then they set out again. This time they were looking for water. They ran across afresh water stream. They gathered some of the water and took it back to camp. Thethree of them that could spent the rest of the time boiling and straining the water and

placing it into containers.

Meanwhile, Gustafo and his party boarded the wreck. The stood up her wrecked

deck. They took a moment to pause and to remember the fallen member who werestill upon her. They moved quickly through the ship. They gathered additional

supplies that they knew would be needed. The captain found his instruments strewnall across his cabin. He carefully looked through the mess that now was his cabin.

He checked each out to make sure they still worked as he located the all. Hegathered the bare essentials from his cabin. Then he left his cabin. He walked to thehighest point upon the deck. He took his readings and consulted his maps. Once he

was satisfied, he moved everything to the lifeboats. They found the ships third

lifeboat. It too had somehow managed to survive the storm. Now the party loaded

everything abroad the three lifeboats and headed back to camp.

The entire party enjoyed the fish shellfish stew that the old man had fixed. Thecaptain then told them that they had not landed on the island that they wanted to be

on. The island was close, but it was still about five more miles away. The partyrealized that they had only three lifeboats. They all knew that each lifeboat could holdten men comfortably. They also realized that they would have to load all the supplies

onto them as well. There was another problem the had one man who was still notable to sit up for long. The little unicorn was another problem. She still could not

walk fully. They decided they needed to fashion a raft of some kind to helpaccommodate everything. They all agreed between the ship and the woods they

would find what they needed. The party settled in for the night.

The next day everyone woke. We each had our assignments for the day. Some setout for the wreck to gather together things to make the with. Some went into the

forest. When everything was gathered together, they began building the raft. It tookmost of the day, but we now had a raft and it did float. We retired for the night. Thenext day we got up and gathered together all our supplies together and toted them

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down to the beachhead. We lashed the raft to two of the lifeboats. We mad a bedupon the raft for the little unicorn. We distributed the weight of the supplies among

the four boats. The very last thing was the little unicorn. The little old man walked upand carefully carried here down to the raft. When everything was settled, we shoved

off. We climb into our assigned boats.

The captain was in the lead boat. He gave instructions and directions to the rest ofthe boats. We came to the wreck of our former ship. We paused a moment for a

final goodbye. Then we rounded the wreck and were now back once again in openseas. We seemed to be making very little progress, but looking back we could see

the island we were on growing smaller and smaller. Then there was nothing but openseas. We rowed and paddled till it felt like our arms would fall off. Then in the

distance a tiny speck appeared on the horizon. It started growing bigger and biggerwith each stroke. The spirits of the party soared when the captain cried out, Yes,that is where we must go. Everybody dug in deeper and began rowing excitedly

toward the speck. Just as the sun was beginning to set we arrived at the tiny island.Everyone was completely exhausted upon arriving at the shoreline. They all knew

time was of the most urgent. They needed to make camp soon. Everyone scurriedaround. Some set the camp. Some secured the supplies, while others started the

fire and prepared the meal. It would be important to have a hot meal after a day uponthe sea. We discussed plans for the next day. We all agreed that it would all dependupon the little unicorn. Gustafo suggested a scouting part, just to confirm that they

were on the right island. With a game plan in place the party climbed into theirmakeshift beds for the night.

The next morning the little old man woke to find the little unicorn not in her bed. In apanic, he roused the others. They all started up and began to look around. After all,

she was the reason for this journey in the first place. Besides, all of them had grownquite fond her. Then she emerged from the woods and she was carrying a sack ofsorts. The old man rushed over to her and hugged her real tight. I was so worried

when you were not in your bed when I woke. The old man said.

Im sorry if I worried you. I was feeling much better and could not sleep. So, I wentand collected some of my favorite food from the forest. It is my way of thanking all of

you for everything that you have done for me. She replied.

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The old man hugged her tightly. He took the pack from her. He looked inside to findfresh berries, fruit and truffles. He handed to the ships cook. The cook looked inside

and excitedly exclaimed, I can make a meal fit for a king with these. He then setabout making a fabulous meal. They were all full.

After breakfast the old man pulled Gustafo aside. I think there is no need for thatscout party. I think she remembers this place and I believe it would just be better if

we just begin following that map.

I would have to agree. She may have been real little when she was taken from here.But, obviously she does remember something from here. Gustafo agreed.

They rejoined the group and told them. It was agreed that Gustafo, the old man, thelittle unicorn and two others would venture into the woods and follow the path markedupon the map. The rest would remain here and see what if anything they could do or

find to get us back home. The party set out into the woods. They began following

the map. It was obvious that that no one had been here in a long time. Vines andweeds had grown so much they were choking the forest path. Brutus one of thedeckhands that had chosen to join us was using a sword to clear the forest path.

Finally the party emerged in a clearing. There in the clearing was obviously ahunter/trappers camp. There were all kinds of trapping devices scattered

everywhere. I noticed that not all of them where humane traps. There were peltsstretched and hung to dry. We picked our way carefully across the camp. The littleunicorn was purely terrified and frozen in place. The old man was afraid she mightbolt just in sheer terror. He knelt beside her. Ok, little one. You must trust me nowmore than ever. I am gonna tie a harness on you and blindfold you. This is not toharm you in anyway, but to help me help you through this camp. The blindfold willhide the images of horror around you so you can no longer see them. The harness

merely to lead you. If it gets too bad. Ill carry you.

She was unable to speak. The horror all around her was just too much for her. Itwas a huge effort for her just to nod her head in agreement. The old man tied the

harness around her making sure it was not tight for her. He then tore a piece of fabricfrom his cloak and fashioned it around her eyes. When he was satisfied he was

finished, he stood and began leading the little unicorn out of the camp. Once clear ofthe camp, he removed the blindfold and the harness. Once her eyes had adjusted to

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the brightness of the light, she noticed the old man had indeed taken her through thatbad place. She starting prancing around playfully and excitedly. She jumped oneach of the party excitedly. After consulting the map, the party moved on. They

arrived at a huge waterfall. The party stopped. Gustafo consulted the map. Well this

is where the map ends. There is no more to it. he said.

This can not be the end. the old man said. There has to be more.

Its, ok. the little unicorn said. You are not suppose to see more. Only a unicorn

can see the valley of the unicorns. Wait here I will find someone who can explain itbetter. With that, she bounded of and disappeared into the waterfall. With nothing

left to for them to do but wait. The party took off their packs and had a bite to eat.They rested beside the waterfall. They began to discuss how they were going to gethome. The raft and lifeboats could only get them back to the island where the wreck

was and then onto the next island. But, there may not be enough island between

here and home. They could find themselves adrift and lost at sea. Everything theycould thing of to help the get home was not real practical.

Suddenly, there was a noise coming from the waterfall. The party sat up and wenton guard. The little unicorn appeared from the falls. The party lowered their guard.She stopped in the middle of the stream and looked back at the falls. She begantalking to the falls or to someone behind them. Slowly from the mists appeared amajestic beast. A full grown unicorn. The little unicorn kept talking to the older

unicorn. The old man started slowly walking down to the edge of the water. The rest

of the party backed up a distance to give the rest if them some space. The littleunicorn bounded over to the old man. This is my pa. He is still not sure about you.

You see there were others like you who came and did bad things to many others whoare no longer here.

The old man looked up at the older unicorn and said, I happened to be in a market

on day. I saw your daughter there. At the time, I did not know she was a unicorn. Ithought she was simply a tiny horse. She did not look all that well at the time.

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She was sickly and thin, She could not even stand. I knew the man had not treatedher well at all. I paid the man a hefty sum of money. I took her back to my place. Icared for her and she finally got better. She has lots of friends who love her verymuch. One day she saw her reflection in her pond, She thought she saw another

unicorn. She became depressed and sadden. It was never my intentions to keep herfrom her family. I did not even know where she was from. I knew I needed to try andreturn her to her family. I started asking around and ended up getting arrested. I had

to explain everything to the sheriff. He assigned Gustafo to ensure that I would do asI had promised. We boarded a ship and there was a huge storm and the ship endedup upon a breaker. We spent three days upon another island before we could build a

simple raft to come here. The old man said. He was quite winded when done.

The older unicorn approached the old man. The old man as not afraid even thoughthe unicorn stood a full twelve hands taller than him. Than you for taking such good

care of my daughter. I thought we had lost her so many years ago. I never wouldhave dreamed to ever see her again. I owe you more than you will ever know. If,

there is anything that I can do for you in return. I will gladly give it to you.

There is only but one thing I want. I doubt you could help me with it. the old manreplied.

The older unicorn looked at the old man and said, You never know till you ask. I maybe able to do it.

The old man looked at the older unicorn and said, Well, its not that I do not like yourhome, and not that I will not miss the little unicorn. But, I really would like to get back

to my home. I miss my own daughter and all my animals.

The older unicorn pondered a moment. I think I can help you with that, but I musthave a promise from each of you.

The small party of men nodded their heads and all at the same time said, we willpromise you anything.

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The older nodded. I must take you through the valley of the unicorns. It is a place

no human has ever seen or lived long enough to tell anyone. But, it is the safest andquickest way to get to the way home for all of you. You all must solemnly swear to

not to tell anyone else about this place or about anything you should happen to see inthe valley.

The all promised. The party gathered their packs and began to follow the olderunicorn into the falls. It was only a short distance till we emerge on a ridge. It

overlooked a vas valley. It was a magical place full of vibrant colors and life. Thelittle old man knew that the little unicorn would be happy here. She would grow, learn

and play. He knew she had learned her lesson about wondering to far from thevalley. The party stood there in amazement and awe for so long. The older unicorngently nudged the members of the party out of their dazed state. They followed theolder unicorn down a path carved in the side of the mountain. The path lead themdown into the valley. The grass here seemed to be lusher and greener than any

grass they had ever seen. They moved slowly across the valley. The older unicorncame to an opening in the mountain. The party followed him into it . It appeared tobe some kind of natural cave of some kind. He lead them down a path which at onetime could have been a river of some kind. It was a huge maze. It ended at a huge

grotto. There in the grotto was a huge wooden ship. It was much larger than the onewe had come here in.

I Do not know when nor how it got in here. I do not even know if it is still sea worth

or not. But, if it is. This could be your way home. the older unicorn said.

The old man knew nothing of ships. The rest of the party boarded the vessel tocheck the sea worthiness of the vessel. The old man stayed behind. He knew if thevessel was indeed seaworthy that he would have to say goodbye to the little unicornforever. The little unicorn wondered over to an antechamber and came back carrying

a tiny jeweled box. She said, \Cut some of my mane and place it in there. If youever get lonely and sad and you find yourself missing me. You will have that to

remind you of me. the old man placed his arms around the little unicorn and the

tears began to flow down his cheeks. He did as she had asked. He placed the

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hairs into the box and placed the box into a pocket of his cloak. He then removed agold medallion that he always wore around his neck and placed it around the little

unicorns neck.

Wear this close to your heart and always remember me. The little old man said.

The hugged each other tight. The old man stood and made his way toward the boat.He knew it would be the one to take him home. But, it would also take him furtheraway from the little unicorn. He clutched the jeweled box tight. He looked back onceand saw her holding the medallion tight. By the time he boarded the ship he found

himself blinded by tears. The other men cam up and clasped him tightly on theshoulders.

the ship is indeed seaworthy and ready to sail. All we have to is raise the gang plankand cast off. Gustafo said, Whenever you are ready, that is. Know this she is now

with her family and now it is time for us to return to ours.

I will never be ready, but we have to get to the others on the beach. We have toreturn to our own lives. She will indeed be fine here. This is here home and it is

where she is suppose to be. the old man said.

Gustafo gave the order to the second mate. They raised the gang plank and cast off.They moved slowly out of the grotto. They rounded the island carefully not to crash

into the breakers. The made it to the other side. They lowered the anchor and one ofthe life boats. Gustafo went himself to the shore and found the rest of the party. Thegathered together everything the four of the m rowed the boats back to the other ship.Those who stayed behind lowered ropes to those below. They hauled everything onboard the new ship. They set the old life boats and the hand made raft to drift. They

secured the life boat that Gustafo had taken to shore. Then the deck hands madehad shore. The cook went below to check out the galley. The captain wondered intothe captains quarters. Once he was satisfied with the accommodations, he set outfor the wheel house. Using his instruments he plotted a course home. He checked

with his second mate and they set a schedule for watches.

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The cook entered the galley and set about checking the stores that were in there.There was very little in this galley expect for pot, pans, dishes n a few spices. But he

found that is was far better than the galley on the old ship. He left the galley andbegan looking through he supplies they had brought on board. He gathered all the

food stores and stored them securely below in the galley. He noticed that they wouldhave about three maybe four days of food aboard. He figured it was like six or sevendays journey till they arrived home. He set out in search of the captain. He found he

up on the poop deck.

Captain, my pardons , sir. But, I need to point something out to you. the cook said.

Well then speak. Tell me what is on you mind. the captain replied.

Well, sir. I took inventory of the food and water. If we ration both, I figure four daysof food and maybe five or six days of water. I did find one key of rum below deck, but

that will not help stretch the food, sir. the cook said.

Well, the captain said. We will have to stop at the island were the ship becamewrecked upon the breakers. We will search the ship for any additional food stores

that are still maybe on board. We can send a party into the wood to gather food andwater. It may only stretch both for awhile, but maybe between the stores on board

and that which we can find in the woods and on the other ship. It will ensure us thatwe can find another island or a port that we can add to our stores. Besides, we could

also find something special from each of the four men who perished in this journeythat we can return to their families.

That would be acceptable to me as long as it is acceptable to the others. I am stillgoing to ration both. Just in cast. The cook said.

The captain nodded and said to the cook, See to that the old man gets a pint of thatrum with his dinner. It will easy his pain for tonight at least.

The cook nodded and went back to the galley to prepare dinner. When Dinner wasdone the cook served the crew. He walked over to the old man. Here this will helpyou some. The old man took the food and the drink that was proffered to him. He

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took a small sip. He felt the rums heat flowing down into his belly. He knew not togulp it as he would become sick. It was a welcome relief. Just a little bit would

indeed help him sleep at least for tonight.

Thank you, this will indeed help me to rest tonight. It will not heal my heart though.The old man said.

The captain came out and stood before them all. We will b stopping for a short whileat the island where the other boat washed up into the breakers. There are severalreasons for this. We will break up into teams. One team will search for food. One

team will search for water. The third team will search the wreckage for personaleffect of those lost at sea so that way we can bring them back to their families. Thefinal team will remain here and watch the ship while trying to catch some fish. If any

man has a problem with this please let me know. the captain said.

Every man in the crew agreed with the captain. It was decided. We made it back to

the island just around dusk. We set the anchor and retired for the night. The crew alltook turns standing watch for the night. Morning broke and cast an eerie glow upon

the wrecked ship. We drew lots as to who would do what except for the old man. Hewilling volunteered to board the wrecked vessel and to retrieve what the captain hadasked. The other seven men were divided into groups of two. The lowered three of

the four lifeboats into the water. Two of the boats headed to the shore and one to thewrecked vessel.

The old man was teamed up with Brutus. They arrived at the wrecked vessel. Theyboarded her for the last time. The made their way slowly below decks. They had topick there way carefully. There was debris strew everywhere from the ship being so

violently tossed about by the storm. They finally found the berthing compartments ofthe four men. The gathered everything they thought their families would want. Themade their way back to the main deck. The placed the stuff next to the rail and werepreparing to lower their collection to the lifeboat. Brutus turned to the old man and

asked, Do you think we should check the galley one more time.

I think that would be a good idea. the old man said.

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They turned around and made their way back down below deck. They found thegalley stores in much the same condition as the rest of the ship. They gathered whatfood they could. The found the had to make several trips. Once they were satisfiedthey had gotten everything they could. They lowered their haul into the lifeboat and

started back to their new ship.

Meanwhile, the other two boats headed toward the shore of the island they had spentthree days upon. Once upon the beach, they secured their boats to the same treesthat they had done before. Then the two parties set out in search of food and water.

One group headed towards the spring and began filling the containers they hadbrought with them. It took several trips before they had filled them all. Suddenly, ashot rang out then another and another. In all there was six shots. The two men

stopped what they were doing and looked around. The guard became in moreheightened. They quickly loaded the last of the containers into the lifeboat in case

they had to make a fast get away. They heard a noise just at the edge of the forest.

The two men turned with their weapons at bear. Easy fellows. Its just us. We camupon a small flock of quail. We got six of them. We figured it would be welcomed

after eating canned stores and whatever fruits and berries we have been able to find.:The two men we both highly relived. They finished loading the fruits and berries andthe quail. Then they began to drag the boats down to the ocean and headed back to

the ship.

Meanwhile, the captain and the cook where trying to fish. They were having little orno luck at all. The were getting little nibbles but not much else. They kept trying.

They hoped the others were having much better luck than they were. The captainheard the shots then. His heart seemed to jump up in his throat. He knew it woulddo little good to try to get to his crew. There was nothing he could do. He can onlywatch for them and he grabbed his spy glass. He was hoping to see something ,anything. He saw both of the lifeboats tied to the tree on the island and two of hismean with their weapons at bear. He looked around and saw the lifeboat returningfrom the wreck. He looked around once again and still did not see anything. The

cook and the captain wrenched the lifeboat on to the ships deck and secured it. The

captain once again grabbed his spy glass and turned it towards the island while the

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three men off loaded the supplies and personal effects from the life boat. While theywere busy with securing the stores below decks. The captain turned his full attention

to the island. He watched as the two other men emerged from the woods. Hewatched as they dragged the boats to the water. He watched them as they returned

to the ship. He did not stop watching till they were securely on board. He had noidea what had occurred on that island. Once all four men where on board, he walked

over to them asked what had occurred upon the island. Two of the men produced thesix quails that they had caught. The captain felt a wave of relief flow over him. Heordered them to take the quail to the cook as they would be tonights dinner. He

knew they would not last at all. The captain ordered the crew to get under way. Afterall the supplies had been off loaded and stored. The cook came up to the captainand informed him that they would indeed have enough food and water to make it

home.

The cook set about preparing the quail for the evening meal. When it was done the

men equally shared it among themselves. The night watch was set and the rotationsbegan. The rest of the res of the journey was uneventful. It was peaceful and calm.The next six days and six nights become a drudger of routines. It was hard work forthe eight men. This was a ship designed for a crew much bigger. On the morning ofthe seventh day our look out from the crows nest called out Land Ho. The captain

pulled out his spy glass. The sight he saw was one he thought he would never seeagain. It was his home port. He began calling out orders. He guided the ship slowly

into the harbor. The party noticed a large crowd gathered upon the docks. Thecaptain found a empty slip and gently guided the ship into it. The party lowered the

gang plank.

Suddenly, a whole bunch of soldiers rushed the gang plank and quickly surround thegroup. The group was started and did not know what to make of this. For a second

time the old man found himself under arrest, and now for a third time he foundhimself in front of the sheriff.

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what is the meaning of this? the sheriff barked. Why have you arrived here upon

this vessel? Do you not know that this is the vessel of a pirate? A pirate mind you,who terrified this very port for many years.

My apologies, sheriff. the old man said. We knew not what the vessel was. The

ship we left port in was caught in a violent storm and ended upon a breaker. You may

have everything aboard this vessel. The only exception being our own personalpossessions and those of our fallen comrades. We do not even know all that is

below deck. There are many sealed doors below. Myself and the rest of this crewjust want to go home to our families.

The sheriff saw the sincerity in the eyes of the men. Gather you possessions and

return her. I believe you to a point, but I still wish to search your packs beforeallowing you to depart. All of them agreed.

They all returned within the allotted time. The guards searched them one by one andwhen finished allowed them to depart the ship. The old man was left for last. It camehis turn. The sheriff stopped the old man, You seem to have more than the others.

the sheriff said.

Yes, I do. I carry the possessions of the four who had perished on this journey. It

was my journey that cost them their lives. It is my burden to notify their families andto tell them the tale of their brave sacrifice. he replied.

The sheriff became welled up inside. He felt the mans pain and his burden. It will

not be an easy burden for you to bear. the guards searched the old man and found

everything to his satisfaction. The old man departed the ship. He set out to find thefour mens families. He found the first one. He gave the widow his possessions. He

told her the story of his bravery and of the journey. He offered her what comfort hecould. He repeated this three more times. When the last on had been told, he

headed for home.

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Upon arriving, he hugged his daughter tight. Then he went about tending to all hisother animals and told them of his journey. He kept the little unicorns home just as

she had left it and carried her box with her hair in it around with him everywhere.Word got out around the small town as to what he had done. Many people came by

and asked him about his journey. He kept his promise to the older unicorn. Henever told a soul about the valley of the unicorns. He spent the rest of his days

peacefully among his animals. Soon the novelty of his journey too wore off. He kepthimself busy as there always seemed to be more and more animals who neededtending to. He never forgot the little unicorn.

It came his time to begin a new journey. A journey to the great beyond. As they wereclosing the coffin. His daughter approached the coffin and placed the jeweled box

upon his chest and placed his hands upon it. Now you can carry your little unicorn

with you to the great beyond.

A local mason had craved a stone headstone. Upon which he chiseled an image of aunicorn upon it. The whole town showed up at his funeral. They all came to honor

one of the most kindest individual ever. His daughter carried on after him. She kepther father alive through the work he had started. When asked about The Valley ofthe Unicorns, she always replied. I sorry my father took that with him to his grave.

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the valley of the unicorns

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