Welcome, readers, to a new tale born from the ashes of a world transformed. In “The Mountain,” we step into a desolate, grey landscape where the air is thick with ash and the past clings faintly to the present. This story begins with Jake Conway, a man returning to his mountain cabin after a reluctant exodus south, navigating a world dulled by an unrelenting fall of ash. Along the way, he encounters Heidi George, a neighbor whose vivid pink house now fades into the monochromatic wilderness, a symbol of resilience amid ruin.

 

This scene is just the start—a snapshot of the Yellowstone narrative, one that explores survival, memory, and the quiet strength found in human connection. The ash has fallen, but what caused it? Why have Jake and Heidi returned to a place others abandoned? These questions linger, and I invite you to join me as I unravel them. Here on tornmacalester.com, I’ll be sharing more snippets, reflections, and updates as “The Mountain” takes shape. If you’re drawn to stories of stark beauty and haunting mystery, stick around—there’s more to come. Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on X at @Torn_Macalester. 

The MountainBy Torn MacAlester   Original Photo by Jose Vega from Pexels. Modified to grayscale and blurred using GIMP.     I sighed, looking at the grey landscape, trying to estimate the direction to the cabin. I abandoned the mountain, like everyone else, when the ash fell. They didn’t expect us to get a lot, but they encouraged everyone to move south if they could, and I could. I loaded the jeep and headed down the mountain and headed south to New Mexico with a relative. After about six weeks, I’d worn out my welcome, and I returned home. Now I […]

What do you think of Jake’s return? What secrets might the ash-covered mountain hold? Until next time, keep exploring the shadows of the unknown.

Stay Connected Stay ConnectedVisit tornmacalester.com regularly for more insights into the Fabulae Lunae universe, including updates on Mask of the Joyful Moon . Subscribe to my newsletter (sign-up below) for behind-the-scenes looks at my writing process and lunar inspiration. Follow me on social media with hashtags like #TornMacAlester and #FabulaeLunae to join the conversation. Let’s explore the Moon together—one story at a time! Contact Us Name * First Last * Last Email * Subject * Message * Submit If you are human, leave this field blank.

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