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Cleanslate Makes Landfall on the Mainland

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30th November, the current year. Winds Westerly, a Gentle breeze, and Foggy weather, elevation roughly 120 meters. Time from Palisades Mast: 39 hours forty-six minutes, estimated 710 Leagues. After seeing nothing but sea for the better part of two days, took sight of land.

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It appeared to be a hummock-shaped Island, rising like a Meat Loaf from the sea. No structures or habitations immediately visible. We dropped elevation to fifty meters and angled in for a closer Look. The glare of the setting sun pierced the fog, and we realized that the island was just off the tip of a long promontory stretching far back into the Distance. It could be a large island, but after consulting DeHoutman’s Atlas and taking measurements with the Redundant Phlogiston Amplifier, concluded that in all likelihood this was actually the Mainland. An area DeHoutman calls “Tessellata,” although I think I may name it Meat Loaf Island.

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Took stock of fuel situation (43% of reserves) and gas pressure (not good), and had to decide whether to proceed or retreat. Something caught my eye and as the Fog lifted, realized that there were structures within sight, although no movement was detected. Uncertain of the climate (could it be poisonous?) outside the comfortable cabin of the Valkyrie, donned field gear, held breath, and stepped outside. It was a bit chilly, so packed up and came home.

Personal note: in retrospect, this was not a particularly well-planned expedition. Coming alone was probably not a sound idea; failing to pack a lunch: equally unwise. In fact, aside from the tin of Little Rhody Cut Plug tobacco in my waistcoat pocket and the stack of newspapers I brought for reading material, I was wholly unprepared. I did think to bring a flag, though, which I planted on the island before leaving.

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And I was able to use the Valkyrie’s gun cameras to take some good photographs, which the Aethenaeum Engine should be able to composite into the beginning of a real map, so it’s not a total loss.

Next time, I shall outfit things properly. And I shall bring Jed. She’ll know what to do.

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2 Comments

  1. Orpheus Angkarn Orpheus Angkarn December 1, 2010

    Congratulations on the discovery! I look forward to more updates from your explorations.

  2. Aeolus Cleanslate Aeolus Cleanslate December 2, 2010

    I would advise other explorers not to forget to bring along a fortifying snifter of an appropriate spirit. Brandy or schnapps seem appropriate, whereas absinthe – excellent in other contexts – would probably be a less-than-optimal selection.

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