Please help and actually help The hike began early in the morning on a dusty trail about a quarter of a mile from our campsite. The sun was warm and golden, but the wind was rough and icy. I was thankful for the layers of cotton clothing under my thin nylon jacket. As Jasper and I continued along the trail, the trees got closer together and the plants grew thicker. We could hear the faint sound of running water in the distance. Without talking, Jasper and I walked in a rhythmic, steady pace. I watched the trail so that I could avoid the tree roots and large rocks that dwelt in the pathway. I noticed how the sun painted the ground with blotches of white light amidst the shadows. Absorbed with my own thoughts, I didn’t realize that Jasper had stopped until he called my name.

I turned and went back to where he had crouched. His fingers were brushing the dirt off a flat stone surface. I looked closely and saw intricate symbols carved into the sparkling black stone. I