Cryptid Quest: A Supernatural Thriller (The John Decker Supernatural Thriller Series Book 8)

by Anthony M. Strong

  “Plenty of animals have gone extinct since man came on the scene.” Decker pointed out. “What about the woolly mammoth and the saber-toothed tiger? The dodo was still hanging on not too long ago.”

  “That’s true,” Cassie said. “They killed the last Dodo only five hundred years ago. The bird lived on the island of Mauritius, where it had never experienced predation. When European explorers arrived, they hunted the animal to extinction for its meat.”

  “Same thing happened to the thylacine, better known as the Tasmanian tiger,” Rory said. “That didn’t go extinct until the twentieth century.”

  Cassie nodded in agreement. “But there’s a big difference between hunting a small group of localized animals already on the brink of extinction and wiping out entire populations of more intelligent and diverse animals in such a way that they left no footprint on the fossil record.”

  “Maybe there were only a few to begin with,” Decker said.

  “Improbable. Every species needs a large enough population to breed. Even if their numbers had dwindled by the time of the Greeks and Egyptians, these creatures should have been plentiful prior to that. Again, they should show up in the fossil record. And we’re not just talking about Cyclops. There are all sorts of impossible creatures out there. Don’t forget, A Typhon attacked us just after my team arrived here. Not to mention the Hydra that tried to eat to me.”

  “That’s another reason these animals can’t have been brought here,” Rory said. “There are creatures living in the river. They would be impossible to transport by ship.”

  “Okay,” Decker said. “Let’s assume you’re right and this area of jungle somehow contains creatures not seen anywhere else on the planet. How did civilizations from half a world away know they were here?”

  “I don’t know,” Cassie said. “But they did. The proof is right here. You’re sitting in it. And here’s the thing, creatures such as the Cyclops were not just limited to Greek myth. All sorts of cultures speak of one-eyed monsters. There are old tales from the Carpathian region of Central Europe. A creature called the Arimaspi, which supposedly had one eye in the center of its forehead. An ancestor of Genghis Khan called Duwa Sokhor similarly had a single central eye. The list goes on. The Kabandha of Hindu mythology. The Slavic Likho. The Serbian Psoglav. Then there are the giants of Philippine folklore called Bungisngis. Even the Irish had a one-eyed monster named Fachan.”

  “I’m not sure I’d count that one,” Rory said. “The Fachan was also supposed to have one leg and one arm. When you think about it, that’s almost comical.”

  “All right, but you get my point. For a creature that has no reference in the fossil record, it sure shows up in a lot of places.”

  “Coincidence,” said Decker. “I bet most of these creatures vary wildly in description, except for the one common denominator of a single eye.”

  “True. But that can be attributed to the story changing through various retellings down the centuries as it became interwoven into each culture’s mythology.”

  “Kind of like a historical game of telephone,” Rory said. “The story changing slightly each time it’s passed on until it bears little resemblance to the original.”

  “And at the heart of it all is the Cyclops, captured here and taken overseas.” Cassie looked at Decker. “And that isn’t the only creature that pops up in more than one culture. Take the dragon, for example.”

  “Or fairies,” said Rory. “People think of them as an invention of Europe in the Middle Ages, but they’re not. Irish folklore has the leprechaun. The Greeks had nymphs. Even the Samoans had a version of the fairy.”

  “What you’re telling me, is all these fantastical creatures have a basis in fact,” Decker said. “That over time different cultures took their memories of them and created the myths that got handed down over the centuries.”

  “I can’t prove my theory. At least not yet,” Cassie replied. “But yes, that’s exactly what I believe. And I think in at least some of those cases, maybe even most of them, the original creatures came from this very spot in the rainforest.”

  “Still doesn’t explain why the Greeks or the Egyptians would want to capture and remove them,” Decker said. “Or what they were doing with them afterward.”

  “No, it doesn’t.” Cassie nodded. “But I bet the answer lies somewhere inside this pyramid, and now that you’re here, I’m hoping we can find it.”

  “I don’t think we have much choice,” Decker said. “Not if we want to make sure history doesn’t repeat itself. There are people out there, bad people, who would pay a lot of money to get ahold of a real live Cyclops.”

  “To use them as a weapon,” Cassie said.

  “Exactly.”

  “Then we might already have figured out what the Greeks and Egyptians were using them for.” Cassie looked at the two men.

  “Soldiers,” Rory said. “Inhumanly strong, almost invincible soldiers.”

  43

  Later that evening, Decker was standing on the weather deck, leaning against the railing, and looking out over the tunnel. Beyond the dry dock gates, he could see the river, its surface reflecting the dim light from the flickering torches along the dry dock walls.

  “Hey,” a voice said behind him. “What are you doing up here all alone?”

  Decker turned to find Rory coming up behind him. “Nothing much. Just keeping an eye out.”

  “Still hoping Emma and the commander will show up, huh.”

  “Something like that.” Decker nodded. “You left Cassie on her own down there?”

  “I got the feeling she wanted a few minutes to herself. Girl stuff.” Rory scratched his chin. “Actually, I’m glad we’ve got this time to talk.”

  “You got something to say?” Decker asked. Judging from the look on Rory’s face, he did.

  “We got interrupted before, when we were talking about Emma.”

  “And?”

  “I’ve been thinking about what you said. About her being consumed with work. I know you have a lot more experience with her than I do, given your history.”

  “Look, Rory,” Decker said. “Maybe I was too harsh when we talked before. Just because she abandoned me, doesn’t necessarily mean she’ll do the same to you. But at the same time, I’m not sure she’s changed much. I’m not trying to put you off pursuing her, believe me. I’m engaged to Nancy and have no interest in Emma at this point. But I don’t want you to get hurt.”

  “I appreciate that.” Rory leaned on the deck railing next to Decker. “To be honest I’m not sure how much of a spark there really was between us. I probably imagined most of it. I haven’t had many relationships, spent most of my life single. I’m just not that outgoing. Sometimes I get carried away.”

  “Don’t be too hard on yourself,” Decker said. “She’s outgoing. Likes to flirt. I’m sure she didn’t mean to lead you on.”

  “Yeah. You must think I’m pretty sad. A lonely and introverted archaeologist who can’t tell the difference between friendly banter and serious romantic interest.”

  “I think nothing of the sort. And as for being introverted, you seem to be doing well enough down there with Cassie.”

  “Because we’re talking about archaeology. It’s my thing. Stray from the topic of conversation, and I’ll clam up. Just watch me.”

  “Just be yourself,” Decker said. “Do that, and you’ll be fine.”

  “You think?”

  “Sure. You’re an interesting guy.”

  “That’s nice of you to say. I appreciate it.” Rory gazed out toward the river. “Do you think they’re dead?”

  “Emma and Ward?”

  “Yes,” Rory said in a small voice. “And Garrett.”

  “I hope not.”

  “Me too,” Decker said. “If they’re not back by first light I’ll go look for them, assuming the Cyclops has gone by then.”

  “I’ll come with you.”

  “You don’t need to do that.”

  “I know. I want t
o.”

  “Understood.” Decker glanced back toward the hatch. “Come on, let’s go back down below. We’re not achieving much up here, and Cassie must be wondering where we are.”

  Rory nodded and turned away from the railing. “Thank you.”

  “What for,” Decker asked as they headed toward the hatch.

  “Trying to boost my confidence,” Rory said. “I appreciate it.”

  “Anytime,” Decker said. “And for the record, I think you deserve better than Emma.”

  “You know what,” Rory said as they climbed back down the steps into the ship. “So do I.”

  44

  Decker awoke with a start.

  He glanced at his watch. It was the middle of the night, a little after three in the morning.

  He looked around, wondering what had awoken him.

  The interior of the ship was lit with a dull red glow, thanks to the smoldering fire still burning in the brazier. They had added extra fuel to this before bed-the splintered remains of crates found in the lower hold-because without it, there will be no light at all.

  Next to him, Rory snored loudly. They were laying on two of the ancient cots last used by the sailors who brought the ship to the Amazon millennia ago. Decker was hesitant to use them at first, but Cassie assured him they were in good enough condition.

  On the other side of the cabin, beyond the ebbing fire, Cassie lay on her own cot. He couldn’t tell if she was asleep, but there was no movement, so he assumed as much.

  He swung his legs off the cot and stood up, looking around. At first, he thought some stray creature might have wandered into their makeshift accommodation during the night, but everything appeared to be in order.

  “What’s going on?”

  Decker glanced around to see Rory sitting up. “I don’t know. I thought I heard something.”

  The archaeologist rubbed sleep from his eyes and yawned. “You know what it was?”

  “No. I’m not even sure what I heard. It’s quiet again now.”

  “Cassie said the Cyclops won’t come in here, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other things around.”

  “I know that.” Decker wished he still had the Makarov PB. He looked around for a weapon, didn’t see one. “I’m going to look outside the ship.”

  “What?” Rory’s eyes flew wide with panic. “I don’t think that’s a good idea. You won’t be able to see a thing out there.”

  “I don’t have any choice,” Decker said, eyeing the hatch through which they’d entered earlier, now closed and secured with a wooden door they had swung shut to guard against any unwelcome visitors taking them by surprise in the night.

  Rory stood and watched Decker climb the steps and put his shoulder to the hatch door. Decker was about to push it open when Cassie came up behind them.

  “Don’t do that.” There was a look of panic on her face. “It’s still nighttime. There are things out there that you do not want to meet in the dark.”

  “Something woke me up,” Decker said. “I need to make sure we’re safe.”

  “Or you could just stay here until morning,” Cassie replied.

  “And then we would be sitting ducks if there really is something dangerous out there.” Decker fixed her with a steely gaze. “Better to know now, than regret it later.”

  “Very well then. But I’m coming with you.”

  “Not a chance.”

  “I’ve been here longer than you. I know my way around.” Cassie was defiant.

  “Well, if the two of you are going out there, I’m not staying down here all alone,” Rory said. “I’ve seen enough horror movies to know what happens to the person who stays on their own.”

  “This isn’t a horror movie,” Decker said.

  “Really? Did you see what chased us yesterday?”

  “Fair enough. We’ll all go.” Decker glanced around, then looked at Cassie. “I don’t suppose you have any weapons handy?”

  “Funny you should ask,” Cassie said. She disappeared into the darkness at the back of the ship. A moment later, she emerged with three poles about six feet long. At the tip of each was a sharp leaf-shaped spearhead. She handed one to each of them. “I found these a few days ago when I was exploring the furthest regions of the ship.”

  “A spear,” said Decker. “I would’ve preferred an M-16, but this is better than nothing.”

  “You’re a few thousand years early for an M-16.” Cassie chuckled. “But this will do some serious damage, believe me. And technically it’s not a spear. It’s a dory.”

  “Wow. I’ve only ever seen these on a dig, or in a museum,” Rory said. “And most of the time it’s just the spearhead and sauroter left.”

  “What’s a sauroter?” Decker asked.

  “It’s the spike capping the rear end of the spear,” Cassie said, pointing to a wicked-looking piece of metal at the bottom of the spear’s shaft. “Here’s a strangely pertinent piece of information. Sauroter is a Greek word. It translates as lizard killer.”

  “Seriously?” Decker raised an eyebrow. “Either that was a strangely prescient name, or they were using these things for more than poking enemy soldiers.”

  “Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?” Cassie replied.

  “It does, that.” Decker felt the dory’s weight, then turned to the door. “Ready to go?”

  “Not in the least,” Rory said. “But I’d rather see what’s out there than spend the rest of the night wondering if something is going to come in here and eat me.”

  “My thoughts exactly,” Decker said. He put his shoulder to the door and pushed, grunting with exertion as he heaved it open. “This thing weighs a ton. I can’t believe you were opening and closing this all on your own.”

  “Didn’t have much choice,” Cassie said. “It was that or leave it open at night while I slept. There was no way I was doing that.”

  “Let’s go,” Decker said, turning his attention back to the job at hand. He climbed up onto the weather deck and waited for the others to join him.

  Together, they descended the gangplank toward the dock. The torches that Cassie had placed into brackets along the dock were still burning, which surprised Decker.

  Cassie must’ve noticed. “The torches are basically sticks wrapped in cloth. There are barrels of fuel in the ship’s hold. It’s still good. I don’t know what it’s made of, but it burns for days on end before I need to douse the torch again.”

  “Greek fire,” Rory said under his breath.

  “What was that?” Decker glanced toward him.

  “Nothing. Just speculating.” Rory held the spear in front of him with both hands. Despite his earlier reluctance to carry a weapon, he was not complaining about this one. He looked down the dock toward the archway. Beyond this was the passage carrying the river through the center of the building. “Looks like we’re alone, after all.”

  “We’ll see,” Decker said. He started off down the dock toward the archway, clutching his spear.

  When he reached the end, he stopped before turning the corner. He peeked around, expecting the tunnel to be empty.

  But it wasn’t. Three figures were running toward him, casting terrified glances back over their shoulders.

  Decker recognized two of them. He felt a rush of relief. It was Commander Ward and Emma.

  He stepped out and showed himself.

  Rory turned the corner and let out a surprised gasp.

  The pair kept running. They didn’t slow down. Instead, they waved frantically.

  “Move.” Ward shouted. “It’s right behind us.”

  “What is?” Decker saw nothing.

  “Just do as we say,” Emma said in a high-pitched voice. She sounded breathless. “Wherever you came from, we need to get back there.”

  “What are they running from?” Rory asked.

  “Guys?” Cassie was looking at the water.

  Decker followed her gaze and saw a V-shaped wake coasting behind Ward and Emma. It was gaining fast.

  �
�What the hell?” Decker said, watching the rippling water.

  “I think we should do as they say.” Cassie backed up as Ward and Emma closed ground and almost barreled into them.

  Decker decided they could discuss the matter later. He retreated, intent upon herding them all back to the ship. But in that instant, the water’s surface erupted and three enormous heads appeared on long, writhing necks.

  Emma screamed.

  Decker’s heart skipped a beat. “What are those creatures?”

  “Not creatures, plural,” Cassie shouted over the melee. “One creature, singular. A Hydra.”

  “Whatever it is, I don’t want to be here anymore.” Rory turned to run.

  Two more heads shot from the water near the dry dock gates holding the fast-flowing river water at bay.

  Then, as one, all five serpentine heads lunged toward them with an earsplitting, high-pitched screech.

  45

  Decker grabbed Emma by the arm and dragged her out of the way a split second before one of the attacking heads plucked her from the dock.

  She let out a terrified shriek and stumbled backwards toward the dry dock.

  Rory threw his spear at another head. The weapon glanced off the Hydra’s thick scaly hide and fell, useless, into the water.

  “We have to get out of its reach,” Decker shouted above the creature’s cacophony of angry screeches.

  “It can’t reach us in the dry dock,” Cassie said. She began hustling everyone away even as the creature reached its multiple long necks toward them.

  Decker stood his ground to buy the rest of the group some time.

  He ducked quickly sideways to avoid a pair of tooth-filled jaws. They snapped at the space he’d just occupied.

  Another head swooped in from the other direction, mouth open and ready to snatch him up. Decker jabbed at the creature with his spear, using its length to keep his arms far from danger. The spearhead found the creature’s mouth and lodged in its upper palate. It flinched back, ripping the spear from Decker’s hand.