Chapter 1: The Call of the Pillars
The cramped office of Alexei, a young archaeologist, was a mess: maps, books, and artifacts were strewn across the floor as if a hurricane had blown through it. His gaze was fixed on an ancient map of the Krasnoyarsk Pillars, legendary rock formations that were said to be on the very edge of the city of Krasnoyarsk. Their jagged peaks, looking like the petrified fangs of ancient giants, pierced the sky as if warning of hidden dangers. Legends of the Whispering Stones, ghostly voices that lure people into the forest and lead to their deaths, had long intrigued Alexei.
Alexei was a brilliant young scientist, obsessed with a thirst for knowledge and adventure. His eyes burned with enthusiasm and his mind was full of ideas. He dreamed of uncovering the secrets of the Krasnoyarsk Pillars and touching the history that was hidden from the eyes of most people.
Despite the warnings of colleagues and locals, Alexey was determined to go on an expedition to the Pillars. He assembled a team of experienced guides and explorers, each with unique skills and knowledge.
Maria, an experienced geologist, had an astute mind and a skeptical attitude toward the supernatural. Her skepticism was balanced by an inquisitive mind and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Maria was a reliable and loyal member of the team, always ready to support Alexei even if she did not share his enthusiasm for the legends of the Whispering Stones.
Ivan, a native Siberian who grew up at the foot of the Pillars, was the group’s guide. He was superstitious and afraid of the mysterious power of the stones, but his deep knowledge of local history and culture made him an indispensable member of the expedition. Ivan often told Alexei and Maria the legends and lore of his people associated with the Pillars.
They jolted in an old SUV through the busy city streets, their bodies aching from the long drive and their heads spinning from the noise and bustle. The cityscapes were gradually replaced by dense forests, their branches intertwining overhead to form a thick canopy that cast a ghostly light on the land below. The air was filled with the smell of pine needles and damp earth. The noise of the city gave way to the buzzing of insects and the singing of birds.
