Day 112: 27 February 2026

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 Short Story -- Unknown Explorer


Log:

Day 576 of rain.

Just kidding.

Sort of.

Because that’s what it feels like.

I always knew I wanted to be an explorer. I longed for the unknown. I loved — and still do — a challenge.

But this rain.

It’s not the rain itself that’s the problem so much as the lack of sun…

And the fact that all my gear is soaked. My clothes are constantly damp. Even in shelter — makeshift or a tent or a cave — you can feel the moisture. There’s not enough fire to dry things out. And they’re just going to get wet again tomorrow. Probably.

This planet is beautiful though. At least the part I’m in.

Because of the unending rain, vegetation is very green. There aren’t many plants that require a lot of sun or warmth. But there are flowers in a variety of hues: blues, purples, pinks, golds, reds…

The temperature wouldn’t be bad if it weren’t so wet. The cold just soaks into one’s bones here.

Even my paper is damp, which makes it more difficult to write legibly.

I’ve not met anyone else yet.

I used to think I was good with silence. They tested us psychologically before sending us out. I passed with flying colours. But even I am starting to yearn to hear a voice that isn’t my own (as long as it comes in peace). I’ve started carrying around a small rock that I’ve named Rick and talk to him, narrating our day.

Today I walked some 20 miles. Thankfully the rain hasn’t affected my physical health. Yet. And the terrain isn’t too hilly. Just lush fields and forest as far as the eye can see (which isn’t far once you’re in a forest).

Now I’ve set up camp for the night. It’s not much: a small shelter made of large branches from the nearby forest, a small fire… I’ve made a simple meal. Rick is sitting on my pack reading over my shoulder, making sure my account is accurate.

I’ve not seen much large wildlife, just: mice, squirrels, rabbits, and the like.

Rick has first watch tonight, while the fire burns down.

Guess it’s time for some shut eye.

Who knows what tomorrow will hold?

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