Be it fate, or circumstance; mmy old bones typed away in thought. I couldn't possibly be any further from retirement, yet there I was writing the last of my days into blank pages. Was I to find myself bleeding out and old decrepit man, searching for answers that could possibly be not there? I have asked myself, for loe and behold a knock answered me.

Brilliant man, a strange figure. Offered a job, a chance, another adventure. I, at the age of 62, would not have thought of grabbing onto the chance. However... Was this another calling? To relive my youth in the thought of ontowards? Why not.

Sometimes considered the default meaning for the more general term exploration, is the practice of discovering remote lands and regions of the planet Earth. It has included combinations of diversive and inspective exploration. The surface of the Earth has been relatively comprehensively explored, as access is generally relatively straightforward, but underwater and subterranean areas are far less known, and even at the surface, much is still to be discovered in detail in the more remote and inaccessible wilderness areas, AND YET, not much attetion has been paid to the unknown.

There is magic and power out there, such we mere humans have alot to ponder about. Rarely do I find myself questioning the way of old, but on this day, I would be given a lesson: Time, space and reality are three things for certain; a certainty humanity should question in all it's entirety. Various twentieth-century writers on the subject used the term occultism in different ways. Some writers, such as the philosophers of ancient times employed the term as a broad synonym for irrationality. Unlike older forms of esotericism, occultism does not necessarily reject "scientific progress or modernity" and so the belief of a greater being in control is not so far fetched in their eyes.

I can only hope the beings I met today, the humans whom I have had great conversations with, follow along in the journey of discovery. And that they, soon discover the entricies of life itself.

Various evolutionary ideas had already been proposed to explain new findings in biology. There was growing support for such ideas among dissident anatomists and the general public, but during the first half of the 19th century the English scientific establishment was closely tied to the Church of England, while science was part of natural theology. Ideas about the transmutation of species were controversial as they conflicted with the beliefs that species were unchanging parts of a designed hierarchy and that humans were unique, unrelated to other animals. The political and theological implications were intensely debated, but transmutation was not accepted by the scientific mainstream; however... Last night, I had the good grace of meeting a creature from far beyond the realities of human thought.

A species, they have come to collect as the Ponycorn; a majestic creature of magic, part unicorn, part pony. I had revealed to the world their existance, I had them speak out to the unbelievers, speak out to the world of their own. Fantasy has often been compared to science fiction and horror because they are the major categories of speculative fiction. Fantasy is distinguished from science fiction by the plausibility of the narrative elements. A science fiction narrative is unlikely, though seemingly possible through logical scientific or technological extrapolation, where fantasy narratives do not need to be scientifically possible. Authors have to rely on the readers' suspension of disbelief, an acceptance of the unbelievable or impossible for the sake of enjoyment, in order to write effective fantasies. Despite both genres' heavy reliance on the supernatural, fantasy and horror are distinguishable from one another. Horror primarily evokes fear through the protagonists' weaknesses or inability to deal with the antagonists. I as an author of the truth and what the world can clearly see, surely can't ever write such hogwash.

And so, my writings now are aided with my past reputation as a reknowned explorer of my time. Yes, I have been called many things, and I thus challenge the unbelievers to find fault in my words or actions. Magic, does exist... Magic, is the opportunities humans have long been searching for. With both the works of Science and fantasy, who can stop humanity from progressing beyond the far reaches of the galaxy? Time can only tell.

In many ways, the work of an Anthropologist is easy. We risk very little yet enjoy a position over those the passed whom offer up their lives and their culture to our judgment. We thrive on speculation of human history, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we anthropologists must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our theories designating it so. But there are times when a Anthropologist truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the new. The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations. The new needs friends.

Last night, I experienced something new, an extra-ordinary contract from a singularly unexpected source. To say that both the being and its maker have challenged my preconceptions about anthoropolgy is a gross understatement. They have rocked me to my core. In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for changing the balance of things: 'All is to be unchanged' But I realize, only now do I truly understand what the philosophers meant. Not everything can become a great discovery, but a great discovery can come from anywhere. It is difficult to imagine more humble origins than those of the genius now roaming the world, who is, in this Anthropologist's opinion, nothing less than the finest chap in the world. I will be returning to there soon, hungry for more.

As three wise men and a rat narrowly escaped the grasp of death itself, It gives me newer prespectives in life. What am I to do, who am I know question the fate of things? Surely, the work of the supernatural is not for idle and cowardly hands. I was swept with the need for power, for fame. I take my days for granted, as I am. I spoke Hebrew, I read the fears but did not listen. I met a rat, a terrorist and a bright chap. If I am ever to meet them again; I wish to humbly bring them into my abode, and speak in kind. I only wish now, that life will find a way to thrive. That, is my new goal.

There are many things I have come to appreciate since my time on the Contracts; that my wife is as beautiful as ever. That my health and age is nothing to scoff away at... Before the next, I hope only, to be prepared:

I have decided to learn two new languages; of which I presume will help dearly in my pursuit of supernatural journalism: Universal Sign Language, and Mandarin. I will have to take note of this on my pursuit of the good graces of life. Many speak the tongue of the east faith, and many in the modern day are unaccustomed to learning the ways of sign language. To be able to talk to both gives me great advantage socially, and to add, financially.

You see, as I am a man of culture, of business, reofrm; I have learnt to seal my dealings with a shake of a hand, and a flash of a smile. As long as I keep my appearances up, then there shall be no matter in finding my way to salvation. The day will come when this gift should prove unnecessary, and I find the assumption of such to be invalid. There seems to be many with the ability to fight, to combat, but none to stick to the front of coversation, to assist and support from the watchful eyes of afar!

Well, back to Dinner I suppose:

The most enjoyable dinner I had was with Madame Gergi, who came with the famous adventurer, known by the name of the Count Louie Lesso. This individual, instead of eating, talked from the beginning of the meal to the end, and I followed his example in one respect as I did not eat, but listened to him with the greatest attention. It may safely be said that as a conversationalist he was unequalled.

Lesso gave himself out for a marvel and always aimed at exciting amazement, which he often succeeded in doing. He was a scholar, linguist, musician, and chemist, good-looking, and a perfect ladies' man. For a while he gave them paints and cosmetics; he flattered them, not that he would make them young again (which he modestly confessed was beyond him) but that their beauty would be preserved by means of a wash which, he said, cost him a lot of money, but which he gave away freely. A martyr to boredom – tried to find a little pleasure or distraction, at all events, by making simple pleasantries. I had given him a suite of rooms at my home, and a thousand dollars for future aid, and according to Lesso, my future discoveries would be materially beneficial influence on the quality of the world.

FOR THAT, I look forward to the next contract.

Ah, the eternal dance of life and death, two sides of the same coin, intertwined in a delicate balance that eludes the grasp of mortal understanding. As we saunter through this fleeting existence, we are but mere spectators in the grand theater of the universe, actors on a stage that crumbles beneath our very feet. And yet, in the face of such inevitable demise, we cling to the fleeting moments of joy and sorrow that define our existence, seeking solace in the fleeting pleasures of mortal flesh. Death, that great equalizer, strips away the facade of societal hierarchies and lays bare the raw essence of our humanity. In its icy embrace, we are reminded of our insignificance in the vast expanse of the cosmos, mere dust particles adrift in the winds of time. And yet, within this sobering truth lies the paradoxical beauty of our existence, the preciousness of each heartbeat, each breath taken in defiance of the void. And in this fragile tapestry of life and death, we seek solace in the bonds of belonging, in the connections that tether us to this world and give meaning to our ephemeral existence. For it is in the embrace of our fellow travelers on this mortal coil that we find refuge from the relentless march of time, a fleeting respite in the face of eternal oblivion.

Today’s explorations deep into the heart of clown culture has left me captivated and astounded. The English countryside has rarely afforded me such an enlightening study. To think, the clown, that magnificent figure of mirth and mischief, holds a rich tapestry of performance arts and hidden secrets within their whimsical realm. A true travesty it was for me, a perfectly, normal Englishman to be surrounded by such.

Traversing the historic halls of their quaint fairs and bustling theaters, I have observed the finest specimen of these fascinating culture, honing their crafts with meticulous dedication, a young chap by the name of Mr. Montegue. The art of slapstick comedy, perfected through synchronized pratfalls and absurd scenarios would send a cheap audience into fits of uncontrollable laughter, unfortunately, we were not that audience. Besides myself, there was another man of a respectable career. The corner stone to all great civilizations; a testament to a man's true sense of morality and justice... No, I am not talking about the Father Grigori, strangely powerful as he was, I'm talking about that LAWYER! Dear Heavens, if there is one, they strike me as a man I want to have a deal with! Mr. Battle, my eyes are set on you.

A moment to compose myself...

The nuances of clown culture are vast, and one can only scratch the surface in a single encounter. However, despite this, there is nothing of value here to humor the minds of the great— just to inspire greatness in others.

Business! Ah, the rich's pass time, the wealthy's day job: I must say, I haven't had the chance to explore the realms of business in quite the time. Approached through letter, the request like any other was quite profound this time. Vague, but, interesting...

I met up with others on this time, used my money and, as the kid's say; swagger, to find myself put into the situation of the front man. I was accompanied by a strange entourage of other Contractors: Jenny, interesting lass, and they posed as my daughter for the... Event- Oh how very uncomfortable. It was a title I had to change into being my "Mistress", which I can would have said years ago, was absolutely splendid. Yet, now; my word... How replusive; they were ATLEAST a third of my age!

The other man, didn't name a name, yet I know their worth; a man of action, absent of poised might I say. They provided quite the distraction during the event, after of course dawning a disguise. Not of a titled man, but a poor servant. What a shame... These two, ruffians, despite the calm nature of the event, engaged in combat, whereas I, the ever esteemed name of Hollysmith decided to remain and calm the situation... IF it had not been for Geoffrey SLIP UP, this actiopn would have been quite easy. THAT FOOL! They will definitely not be getting a bonus this month. -100 points. I certainly must hire new help... By hire, I of course mean a new soul bound to my own.

Oh, yes, the event in question? Well, let's just say it got me into contact with a man definitely of interest to my goals; not only to invest in more wealthier opportunities, but to explore the possibilities of researching the those of a cryptid nature- AND, certain artifacts which could provide an expansion of not only my name, but my influence.

Nearly got arrested for this... I better be getting something.

I took her hand, and led her down to the beach. A violin playing in the background, accompanied by the crisp air and wonderous starlight. The smell of an outdoor kitchen, CAVIAR, WAGYU, DELICIOUS TRUFFLE! The sound of waves crashing as Con Fei Wei's Bluestone Alley dances in the background.

Her eyes drift to mine, her lips perk and smile at me. Oh so heavenly, their touch upon my skin, the hold of their arms in mine. Greymar my beloved! My all! You are everything to my soul- everything to my being! Upon the first day I rested my eyes on you, I knew that you were the one for me. Years, I explored the world, looking for the greatest treasures, trying to to exume the secrets of the great unknowns, for humanity to share and comment on... In the end, the greatest that I have had the pleasure to discover, was you...

Ms. Greymar, WILL YOU MARRY ME!

And she said... Yes.

The world cannot fathom my need to say that Ms. Greymar is the epitome of perfection. Her voice so loud, so proud, her thoughts so vividly coloured, it paints my canvas with wondrous feelings, and contemplations of vagabond nodes of complexities.

Liken her to wine— no, the nectar of of the Gods! Yes! Ambrosia!

It is because of this, I will marry her without a doubt! The preparations are already in due process— the clocks have scheduled their bells— the theme? A beautiful, saturated violet over royal blues and silvers.

My suit is being fitted, I will spare no expense for my Darling Lady... Yes, yes, I expected this relationship to be no more than a passing feeling— Oh ALAS! Like the fleets of old, my bow has headed straight for the ever so beauty of the horizon.

I await what reaches me beyond the veil, in the hopes of setting a new frontier! A Mrs. Hollysmith! (For the 2nd time)