by Douglas Young<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Clyde Baxter and Sedona Watts held hands driving up the rural, two-lane highway. They had almost reached the mountainous Thadeus Holtzclaw State Park where Sedona had tried to get Clyde to go camping for years. Though she loved the outdoors and had many happy camping memories, Clyde preferred nature from a distance or at least when assured he would be indoors by nighttime. So Sedona classed it as a notable victory to have at last prevailed upon her man to give camping a try, at least for one night. She even bought a new tent for the trip.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cJust beware of anything with the dreaded words: \u2018Some assembly required,\u2019\u201d he warned.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve already put it together in the back yard, Mr. Worry Wart,\u201d she replied with a giggle. \u201cHey, the next left is the park entrance,\u201d she noted excitedly.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAlthough at this pace, it may take us another twenty minutes.\u201d He frowned at the old pickup truck ahead of them going a tad below the minimum speed limit. \u201cJust our luck to get stuck behind Ma and Pa Kettle,\u201d he added while veering slightly into the oncoming lane to see if he could pass.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cGeorge Carlin warned never to get \u2018behind any man over 70 wearing a hat,\u2019\u201d he recalled with a loud sigh.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHave a little patience, darling,\u201d Sedona advised with a slight chuckle. \u201cWe\u2019re almost there.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They soon parked in an almost empty lot near the park\u2019s welcome center. The building was old but meant to look futuristic, albeit with Soviet-style bureaucratic features. Walking toward it, Clyde pointed at the structure and pretended to vomit before holding up his fingers to make a sign of the cross, as if warding off a vampire.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOkay,\u201d Sedona remarked. \u201cSo it\u2019s a little out of date.\u201d She grinned.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cFrom the 1960s \u2013 the decade architecture died,\u201d he observed.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 She took his arm to quicken their pace. Entering the building, they approached the registration desk where an old lady volunteer smiled at them.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHere to reserve a campsite?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYes ma\u2019am,\u201d Clyde replied as he handed her his driver\u2019s license.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAll right, Mr. Baxter.\u201d She returned it, along with a card identifying their campsite. \u201cIt\u2019ll be twenty dollars a night, please.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHere. I\u2019ve got it,\u201d Sedona volunteered while opening her purse.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNope, I\u2019m not dead yet and I ain\u2019t broke,\u201d Clyde announced opening his wallet.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAnd you must be Mrs. Baxter,\u201d the volunteer declared smiling at Sedona.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo ma\u2019am. I just sleep with him.\u201d Miss Watts smiled back.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The couple drove to the campsite and were pleased it was high up Matthew Ector Mountain with trees everywhere and a lovely view of Cadmus Wilcox Valley below. There were trails close by and no one else was near them.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 With an ever-growing grin, Sedona beamed at Clyde, waiting for his assessment. He returned her gaze and could not help but smile.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s right nice indeed,\u201d he decreed. She kissed his cheek before they set up the tent.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThat old gal must\u2019ve really taken a shine to us sure enough to give us such a gem of a sweet spot,\u201d Sedona declared.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m just glad she assigned it to us before your delightful little remark.\u201d Clyde raised his eyebrows at her.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, she got a kick out of it,\u201d Sedona replied. \u201cShe was laughing inside.\u201d She winked at him.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI think we\u2019re just lucky no one else is camping on account of the likely rain<\/em>,\u201d he added. She rolled her eyes.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They took advantage of the remaining summer sunset to explore some trails. Leaning into him and taking his arm, Sedona was delighted that her long-held dream of them camping together had finally come true. Suddenly suffused with marvelous memories of camping with her family and then with her college roommates, she was elated to be on her first romantic camping trip.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Relieved their campsite was so serene, they were all alone, there were no hiccups putting up the tent, and the rain had held off, Clyde was grateful that the trip he had dreaded all week was turning out swell after all. He put his arm around Sedona and she returned the favor while leaning her head on his shoulder. They continued walking a trail ensconced by tall trees and thick leaves, enjoying the mountainside with occasional splendid views of the forested Wilcox Valley and mountains on the other side.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 When it got almost dark, they returned to the campsite and then walked down the road a bit to the public restrooms to wash up for the night.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Another old lady park volunteer was leaving the ladies room with a bucket and mop when they arrived. Seeing the couple eye her, she spoke up loudly.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThey was asking for volunteers to clean the bathrooms but ain\u2019t nobody was raising a hand. So I figured, well, if Jesus can wash feet, I reckon I can wash toilets.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAmen,\u201d the couple replied in unison and thanked her.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Back at the campsite Sedona and Clyde made a small fire and sat on lawn chairs holding hands while alternately admiring the flames and foliage. They expressed gratitude for what a placid setting it was which they savored all the more after a hectic work week. The only potentially ominous linings to an otherwise silver cloud were the increasingly frequent flashes of lightning and steadily louder sounds of thunder.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cMan, I sure hope it doesn\u2019t rain,\u201d Clyde noted looking skyward.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, come on, shug. Have some faith. Even if it does, we\u2019ve got a brand new, guaranteed water-proof tent. We\u2019ll just be cozy-cozy in our own little love nest.\u201d She kissed his cheek.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOkay,\u201d he remarked. \u201cBut if it starts to rain hard, I\u2019m headed to the car.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSome camper you are.\u201d Sedona laughed.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s right, and I\u2019ll find us a nice motel too,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cCan\u2019t you just relish how romantic all this is \u2013 and even more so if it does rain?\u201d she asked. He looked at her with a raised eyebrow and the slightest smile, prompting her to tickle him.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 When the fire died out, they bedded down in the tent, holding each other silently while serenaded by a chorus of crickets, birds, and echoes of thunder. They admired the small flickers of light outside made by fireflies, as well as the streaks of lightning.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Clyde and Sedona turned to each other and grinned. Rubbing their noses together, he smiled and she giggled as he gently rolled on top of her and she embraced him. His teeth pulled her lower lip down before slipping his tongue between her lips. They kissed a long time, leisurely inspecting every part of each other\u2019s mouth before he rested his chin on hers and held her head. After several seconds of looking into each other\u2019s eyes, he spoke softly.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cBeing alone with you is the one place I have peace. You are my sanctuary. Eternal thanks, my love.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Staring deeply into his eyes, she took his head in her hands and kissed him eagerly, wrapping her legs around him as he ran his hands through her hair.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Though their eyes were closed, they became aware of a much brighter light on the side of the tent facing the valley. Clearly neither fireflies nor a momentary flash of lightning, this light was larger and more intense by many magnitudes and remained constant.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Clyde rolled on his side as they examined the light for many seconds before glancing at each other and getting dressed without a word. Still instinctively taking the flashlight, he walked out of the tent and held the flap open for Sedona. As soon as they faced the light, each put up an arm to block its initial brightness before looking at each other.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019ve camped here before,\u201d he noted. \u201cHave you ever seen anything like this?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo way, dude.\u201d She shook her head for emphasis. \u201cThis is a whole new camping experience for me.\u201d They stared in awe at the massive expanse of light illuminating the forest below. The light appeared to encompass the whole valley, from Stan Watie River at the bottom high into the sky. The light was so intense that it was hard to make out the mountains across the valley.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, I reckon we\u2019d have a right tough time getting lovey-dovey or trying to sleep with all this,\u201d he remarked and she nodded slowly. Sedona and Clyde saw that the lighter parts of their clothing were glowing, as well as the tent. Looking in every direction, they were amazed at how extraordinarily well-lit everything was. After several more seconds, Sedona turned to him.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cLet\u2019s check it out, Clyde,\u201d she enthused as his eyes blinked and widened at her. \u201cCome on. This is so exciting \u2013 likely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Who knows what it is?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cExactly,\u201d he noted. \u201cI don\u2019t know, honey bunny. I got a real strange feeling about this here light, and is it just me or has it now taken on a slightly greenish tint too?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re right,\u201d Sedona exclaimed. \u201cOh, let\u2019s see what it is, Clyde. The trails are sure well-lit now, and when will we ever come across anything like this again?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hesitating, sighing deeply, and squinting at the massive, mildly greenish, then more yellow, and finally bright white wall of light, he then looked to see if anyone else was in the area. Seeing no one, he gazed back at Sedona and they locked eyes.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They had long relished sharing a special intuitive bond, most lovingly manifested by staring into each other\u2019s eyes and trying to communicate without words, often thrilling each other by correctly guessing the other\u2019s thoughts, and Sedona knew precisely what was most likely to persuade him to investigate the light.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWhat if it\u2019s a UFO?\u201d she asked with the barest trace of a smile. \u201cDo you really want to blow your best chance to see one or maybe even \u2026 have a close encounter? Our<\/em> best chance?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Clyde blinked as his senses were flooded by feelings of intense curiosity, a desire not to appear unmasculine, and excitement at experiencing something uniquely special that he hoped would unite him still closer with the love of his life.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As she watched his eyes twinkling on his brightly lit face, his smile widened to match hers.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cLet\u2019s do it, babe,\u201d he declared and she slapped his back.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Out of habit, he started to turn on the flashlight before realizing there was absolutely no need. But he held on to it anyway.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAh! We need to document this,\u201d he remarked as he used his phone to take a few pictures of the illuminated trees.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As they began walking down the trail in front of them, each thought it appeared as if they were entering an incredibly illuminated, slanted maze. While everywhere was an explosion of light, it seemed brightest at the base of the valley. Sedona pointed to white flowers ahead glowing brilliantly and Clyde photographed them. As they got closer, the flowers also appeared to pulsate. Clyde recalled friends describing how they saw this after taking LSD. Could we be having some kind of hallucination? <\/em>He wondered. But I sure don\u2019t recall ingesting anything remotely psychedelic for dinner at General C.C. Sanders\u2019 Rib Shack.<\/em><\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIs it just me or do these blooms also seem to be throbbing?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019re still on the same page,\u201d she confirmed.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The couple continued walking with a growing mix of awe, excitement, and dread. He became increasingly tense as he sensed something was amiss but, looking everywhere, could not discern what it was. Finally, he could stand it no longer.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWait. Stop,\u201d he said placing his right hand on her arm. \u201cThere\u2019s something else weird aside from the light. I can\u2019t say what but I sure feel it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI hear you,\u201d she affirmed. \u201cMy spidey sense is tingling too.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cLet\u2019s not say anything. Just listen,\u201d he said. They stood still, peering in every direction at the lit-up trees and bushes but heard nothing.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWhat? I don\u2019t hear anything,\u201d Sedona noted.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cExactly! That\u2019s it,\u201d Clyde replied. \u201cNo crickets, no birds, no thunder, no anything. When\u2019s the last time you were in the woods on a summer\u2019s night and heard not a single sound?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNever,\u201d Sedona answered slowly. \u201cApparently something has really spooked all the critters.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They looked around again before facing each other and continuing down the trail as the light grew still more mesmerizing. Sedona was struck by how bright even the backsides of the trees were as they descended toward the valley. Looking at the trail behind them, they realized they were completely enveloped by light.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Taking in the long lines of trees on either side of the path, Clyde remembered accounts of \u201clife after death\u201d experiences where people recounted walking toward a very bright light with people lined up on either side. He tried blocking out such thoughts by looking at the ground, but that only confirmed there was no escaping the brilliant light. Though completely absorbed in the moment, he could not deny his growing apprehension. On one hand, he did not want to appear scared, especially to Sedona. But he also felt an obligation to protect her and asked himself if he was risking her safety. Though he rationally could not discern any immediate threat, emotionally he sensed potential major harm ahead. Part of him hoped Sedona would ask to turn around. If she did, he knew he would readily assent.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Though still thrilled to investigate the light, an increasingly nervous Sedona was ever more grateful to have Clyde by her side. As they walked farther down Ector Mountain and the light got even brighter, she wondered if they had made a mistake. She looked at Clyde to see if he appeared ready to turn back, only to see him totally transfixed on what was ahead. Knowing how much he loved reading books and watching documentaries on UFOs, she knew how important this was to him but worried they were venturing into danger. How she yearned for one of their cherished \u201cmind-melds\u201d but knew she was too anxious to read his thoughts.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As incredibly illuminated as everything was, Clyde initially lamented bringing the flashlight, but as they went down the mountain and the light grew ever brighter, he found himself holding it tighter. Glancing behind them to see if anyone else had dared broach the light and seeing no one, he was at least comforted that they would have a well-lit path back to the campsite.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 When he turned back around, Sedona squealed and grabbed him as a glowing rabbit darted across the path a couple of feet in front of them. Clyde felt as if his heart would leap out of his chest and worried how fast it was beating.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s okay, gorgeous. It\u2019s just a rabbit,\u201d he pronounced with his arms around her. \u201cYou\u2019re all right, dear. I\u2019m right here.\u201d Though she nodded, he thought he may have heard her teeth chatter, and Sedona could feel she was not the only one shaking.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWhy would a wild brown<\/em> rabbit glow?\u201d she asked. \u201cAnd is it just me or was it pulsating too?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWe ain\u2019t just on the same page, babe, but the same paragraph,\u201d he confided.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 When they resumed walking, he reached for her hand and she quickly took it. Knowing the perspiration he felt was not just hers, Clyde resolved to try not to betray any fear.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 With increasing regret that she had suggested they pursue the light, Sedona was nevertheless determined not to back out when Clyde seemed so captivated by their quest. But she also knew hers was not the only sweaty palm.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He moved a step ahead and to Sedona\u2019s right so he could hold the flashlight in his right hand. She felt his left-hand grip tighten and she took it in both of hers.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As they continued descending, the light became more intense and now more greenish again. Sedona stopped and Clyde quickly turned around.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cListen,\u201d she said. \u201cYou hear it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They stood mute while surveying their surroundings. A hum could clearly be detected.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI do,\u201d he answered. Turning toward the light, he stared ahead for several seconds before locking eyes with her. When he moved forward, she followed, albeit both at a slower pace. She also noticed that he was now crouching slightly and holding the flashlight like a weapon.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As they continued walking, the humming grew louder. Each turn of the path seemed to indicate they were significantly closer to \u2026 something unknown but perhaps incredibly powerful.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Both jumped slightly when they felt raindrops. Since starting down the trail, neither had noticed any thunder and, with the light now almost blindingly bright, seeing a lightning strike seemed out of the question. As the rain grew heavier, both regretted not bringing an umbrella. But neither turned back.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It occurred to them that the light ahead was becoming somehow more diffuse since a somewhat foggy or misty quality was ever more apparent. Though there had been no breeze on their earlier walk along the same trail, they stopped at the sight of leaves flying in front of them. What had come to resemble a brightly lit impressionist painting was actually a cloud of dust and leaves swirling ever higher in a broad circular pattern. The rain grew heavier as well. Clyde pulled out his phone to take more pictures and record a video.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Suddenly a large flash of blindingly white lightning shot across just above them, prompting them to duck almost to the ground. Seconds later a thunderous roar like a cannon appeared to consume them and they grabbed each other tight. The noise continued for several seconds as the rain got thicker. Shivering from the water and fear, Clyde sought to comfort them.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s just lightning and thunder, babe, exaggerated by an echo from the valley. We\u2019re fine.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sedona buried her head under his neck and appeared unable to speak. Feeling like his heart was about to gallop right out of his chest, Clyde realized he had dropped his phone and flashlight and urgently looked for them. Picking them up, he then lifted Sedona to her feet and dared to face the enormous canvas of ever-brighter and greener light. The debris swirling within it seemed to be moving still faster, and they flinched as flying leaves and twigs began to sting them. Completely drenched, Clyde held Sedona close as he looked in every direction and realized with a start that they appeared to be inside some kind of incredibly-lit green tornado.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve got you, love.\u201d He tried to reassure her and realized he was having to shout above the rain, wind, and ever-louder hum. When the ground began to vibrate, he felt his chest tighten.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 A journey begun so promisingly had become a terrifying nightmare for Sedona. Added to her fear was guilt for convincing Clyde to make the trek. Sensing panic setting in with both of them, she understood it was critical to maintain some semblance of calm and rational thought. Concerned that Clyde still yearned to complete their quest, she was determined to demand otherwise, grabbing his face with a look of urgency he had never seen and speaking loudly and slowly.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWe have to leave, Clyde \u2013 now<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Looking more alarmed than she had ever seen him, after a second\u2019s pause he nodded vigorously. Holding each other fiercely, they turned around. But the intensifying greenish light, pounding rain, roaring hum, vibrating ground, and debris rushing by had thoroughly discombobulated them. Unable to find the trail back, they clutched each other like never before. For half a minute they buried their heads in each other\u2019s necks with eyes closed to try to block out the scariest moment of their lives, desperately clinging to the one who understood, comforted, and loved them most. Each said a silent prayer.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Raising their heads as one and methodically making a visual sweep of their environment, they walked slowly in the direction where the light seemed least intense. Still gripping each other firmly, they gradually picked up speed, growing more confident as the light ahead became less bright, the wind less ferocious, flying objects no longer hit them, the ground ceased to vibrate, and the only sound was the pounding rain. Despite periodically tripping over rocks and fallen branches, their pace continued to quicken.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Standing at their full height again, they took each other\u2019s hand. Exasperated they still could not find a trail, they stopped to look around. After a short while, Sedona tapped Clyde\u2019s shoulder and pointed at a distant light moving toward them. As they watched it approach, the light eventually turned away and disappeared. Seconds later another light followed the same pattern. Then other lights in the distance moved in the opposite direction before disappearing.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThey\u2019re car lights! It\u2019s the highway,\u201d Sedona shouted. Elated to see such happy excitement on his lover\u2019s face, Clyde cupped her cheeks and matched her full smile before they kissed for several seconds. Taking each other\u2019s hand, they resumed walking in the direction of the highway. As the forest grew darker, the car lights became more distinct. At one point they looked back at the greenish light to see it fading. Sedona pulled Clyde in the direction of the road.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cDarling, we need to keep moving,\u201d she said gently but firmly, and they walked faster toward what they could now see was the edge of the forest. For the first time in a long while, they were engulfed by darkness, and it had never felt so good to them. Not only were rapidly moving car lights discernible ahead, but their engines were now heard as well. Flashes of lightning could also be seen overhead. When they emerged from the trees, the winding two-lane road was right before them. Despite the lack of limbs above making them even wetter, they rejoiced with open grins, embraced, and kissed. With the rain still pounding, they broke into a laugh and felt waves of tension wash away.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHow about our first kiss in the pouring rain?\u201d he asked with a chuckle.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll take it, big boy,\u201d she answered smiling.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 They walked to the breakdown lane to try to catch a ride. Though it was a Friday night, few cars came from either side.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cPull up your pants leg to inspire a driver to pick us up,\u201d Clyde remarked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, right, like Claudette Colbert in It Happened One Night<\/em>,\u201d she noted. \u201cYou know, Stan Laurel did the same thing in Laurel and Hardy\u2019s Way Out West<\/em> \u2013 also with success.\u201d She winked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOkay. If your leg doesn\u2019t get any driver hot, I\u2019ll show mine,\u201d he replied.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWhere do we want to go?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He paused before answering, started to speak, and then hesitated again.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYou think we should go straight to the police,\u201d Sedona stated while grabbing her arms amid the downpour.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI do,\u201d Clyde answered. \u201cShug, you weren\u2019t kidding about this being a once-in-a-lifetime happening. I mean, how many folks ever experience anything remotely like what we did? I truly believe it was some kind of UFO, and we need to report everything that happened or we\u2019re really going to regret it. The police\u2019ll take us back to the car \u2026 and we can see just how \u2018guaranteed water-proof\u2019 that tent really is.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sedona doubled over laughing.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 At that moment they were startled to be consumed by light as an old pickup truck pulled into the breakdown lane to stop in front of them. They ran to the passenger side door and opened it.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cCome on in and get out of that pouring rain, y\u2019all,\u201d the old lady behind the wheel exclaimed. \u201cWhat in tarnation are y\u2019all doing out in this weather, and without even an umbrella?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sliding onto the seat beside her, Sedona was delighted when the small dog sitting by the driver jumped in her lap to lick her face.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, don\u2019t mind General Forrest, dear. He don\u2019t bite none. Just licks. As wet as y\u2019all are, you shouldn\u2019t notice none anyway,\u201d the driver remarked laughing as she drove onto the highway.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, he\u2019s precious,\u201d Sedona pronounced and hugged the dog.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cEnormous thanks for picking us up, ma\u2019am,\u201d Clyde declared and Sedona quickly seconded him.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWeren\u2019t no trouble at all. Just glad the Good Lord give me the chance to be a Good Samaritan,\u201d the driver declared.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, bless your sweet heart, ma\u2019am,\u201d Sedona replied.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAmen,\u201d Clyde added.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSo where y\u2019all headed?\u201d the driver asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 After hesitating, Clyde spoke. \u201cThe nearest police or sheriff\u2019s department, please, ma\u2019am.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cUh, oh. Y\u2019all all right? I sure hope you ain\u2019t in no trouble. Y\u2019all ain\u2019t Bonnie and Clyde, are you?\u201d She laughed looking at the utterly drenched pair.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo, no,\u201d Sedona said chuckling. \u201cWell, he is a Clyde, but not Barrow. We\u2019ve just come through the most amazing experience of our lives and think we may have encountered a UFO.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, my Lord,\u201d the lady exclaimed. \u201cWell, that\u2019ll sure spice things up down at the sheriff\u2019s department. I reckon ol\u2019 Leroy\u2019ll have a field day with that.\u201d She laughed.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m sorry we\u2019re getting your seat soaked, ma\u2019am,\u201d Sedona offered.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, don\u2019t pay that no mind, dear,\u201d the lady replied. \u201cThis here\u2019s my field truck. I reckon y\u2019all are the first passengers that ain\u2019t dogs or cats in a right long spell, sure enough.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Soon after entering the nearby little town, they pulled up to the sheriff\u2019s department, a small building also housing the town\u2019s lone fire truck and ambulance.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOne-stop shopping,\u201d Clyde noted before Sedona elbowed him.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, it ain\u2019t much to look at, but the sheriff\u2019s an honest Christian,\u201d the lady offered. \u201cHe\u2019s a second cousin, a deacon at First Baptist, and don\u2019t play no favorites. He\u2019ll give you a fair hearing, and I figure he or a deputy\u2019ll take y\u2019all wherever you need to go.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 After thanking her profusely, Clyde offered her a twenty-dollar bill.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo sir,\u201d she declared emphatically with a raised hand and turned head. \u201cNow the Lord don\u2019t work that way. As the Good Book says, \u201cBe not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cMa\u2019am, I\u2019m no angel,\u201d he replied.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, then you can thank me by just being a good Christian,\u201d the driver declared with a smile.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, I\u2019ll sure try,\u201d he replied.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Entering the one-story building, they became the star attraction as the barely-twenty-something female receptionist and two thirty-something male deputies looked at them from behind the front desk on their left. The receptionist sat at a large computer screen and the deputies were standing in the back of the room chatting and drinking coffee.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cMercy, I guess somebody sure forget their umbrella,\u201d the young lady got out before giggling. \u201cY\u2019all all right?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cYes ma\u2019am,\u201d Clyde answered.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHow can we help?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Clyde looked at Sedona and cleared his throat. \u201cWe\u2019d like to report \u2026 what we think \u2026\u201d \u2013 he saw the deputies silently peering at him \u2013 \u201cmay have been a close encounter with a UFO.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The young lady blinked, widened her eyes, and raised her eyebrows as the deputies exchanged glances. Sedona took her boyfriend\u2019s arm and spoke up.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWe know it sounds crazy, but we really think this is important and needs to be investigated.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSure,\u201d the receptionist declared while nodding and picking up the phone. \u201cSheriff. There\u2019s a couple here who want to report a UFO\u2026. Uh, huh\u2026. Yes sir. All right. I will.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 She pointed toward the sheriff\u2019s office at the end of the hall but asked them to wait while she went to a closet to retrieve a pair of blankets. After thanking her, they walked down the short hall drying their hair and patting down their clothes.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cLeroy Walker,\u201d boomed the large, fifty-something gentleman standing behind his desk in a sheriff\u2019s uniform with an extended hand. \u201cGracious alive. Y\u2019all fall in Stan Watie River? Have a seat, and don\u2019t worry none \u2019bout getting \u2019em wet. They\u2019ll be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 After shaking hands and introducing themselves, Sheriff Walker smiled at them amid small talk. Sedona and Clyde sensed they were being closely examined.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, let\u2019s hear \u2019bout y\u2019all\u2019s big adventure this evening,\u201d the sheriff said in a more serious tone. \u201cBut before we do, are you both okay?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, yes sir,\u201d they answered.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cGood. Well, then, let\u2019s just start at the beginning and see where we go.\u201d He leaned back in his swivel chair.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sedona tapped Clyde and he began.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWe were camping in Holtzclaw State Park on Ector Mountain and had just gotten inside the tent to go to bed probably about 10:30 or so,\u201d Clyde said, turning to Sedona who nodded. As he described the remarkable white light, Clyde noticed the sheriff\u2019s eyes narrow slightly before widening at the mention of the light taking on a greenish tint. Sensing the sheriff was having trouble believing him, Clyde hesitated and Sedona picked up the story. When describing the windstorm and flying debris, Sheriff Walker\u2019s eyes blinked and got big again as his eyebrows went up. Intuiting that she was losing him too, Sedona paused and shifted gears.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cClyde, show him the pictures and video.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, right,\u201d he replied and pulled out his phone. \u201cHopefully all the water didn\u2019t damage it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Clearly intrigued, Leroy Walker leaned across his desk and they all examined the pictures of the initial wall of light and the glowing flowers. They then watched the short video of what had felt like an extraordinarily-lit, greenish tornado. The sheriff took the phone and squinted his eyes replaying the video.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Though the pictures and video captured what they saw, the couple worried that, out of context, they just did not prove anything. They looked at each other wishing they had more evidence to convey how bizarre their experience had been. They then took turns finishing their story, ending with Sedona\u2019s lament that they missed the name of the sweet old lady with cute little General Forrest in the pickup who had such warm words for her cousin, Sheriff Walker.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, that\u2019s Cousin Darcella,\u201d the sheriff spoke up with a full grin. \u201cShe\u2019s sure good people.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cDefinitely,\u201d Sedona agreed, \u201cand I\u2019d really like to please get her address to send her a thank-you card and a gift.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOh, that\u2019s mighty decent of you, dear. That\u2019d make her day,\u201d Walker declared. \u201cAsk Addie on the way out and she\u2019ll look it up for you. And one of us\u2019ll take you back to the campsite \u2013 unless your nerves are shot and you\u2019d rather go straight to a motel.\u201d He lowered his head and smiled.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Clyde and Sedona chuckled. Both felt utterly exhausted but also enormous relief. With some hesitation, Clyde spoke.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSo what do you really think happened?\u201d he asked Sheriff Walker, sensing their presentation had been underwhelming. He and Sedona sighed and looked at the sheriff in a hopeful yet resigned manner. Tilting his chair back while lacing his fingers, Leroy Walker looked intently at the ceiling for what felt like a long time before taking a deep breath and putting his elbows on the desk with his chin atop clasped hands.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI do \u2019preciate y\u2019all coming in here to report all y\u2019all experienced \u2013 endured \u2013 tonight. There ain\u2019t no doubt in my mind that y\u2019all\u2019ve gone through a mighty strange and downright terrifying ordeal. Most importantly, we\u2019re all grateful y\u2019all are okay, just a bit soaked\u201d \u2013 he paused to smile \u2013 \u201cand right shook up some, I\u2019m sure,\u201d he added sympathetically.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThat was right savvy of you to take the pictures and video, and I \u2019preciate it.\u201d He paused and looked at the desk for a few seconds before continuing. \u201cNow as to exactly what y\u2019all saw \u2026 or experienced \u2026 or were in the presence of, who can say?\u201d He shrugged his shoulders, raised his eyebrows, and spread his large hands. \u201cIt\u2019s a great big ol\u2019 world out there that\u2019s plum full of all kinds of peculiar happenings we just can\u2019t explain. Lord knows, I can\u2019t. I just read my Bible, try my best, and give God the rest.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sedona took Clyde\u2019s hand as they nodded and listened intently. Though frustrated they had failed to convince the sheriff of all they had seen and felt, they were too drained and relieved to be upset. They were also grateful for how kind the sheriff and everyone else they had met in the town had been.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Reading the disappointment on their faces and slumped body language, the sheriff clasped his hands on the desk, leaned forward, and lowered his head.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNow what do y\u2019all believe really happened?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Looking at Sedona first, Clyde slowly spoke.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThough, Lord knows, I certainly can\u2019t say for certain, I honestly think some kind of UFO landed in that valley tonight, Sheriff. Based on everything we saw, heard, and felt, I just can\u2019t come up with any other rational explanation. What else could it have been? But can I prove it? No sir. I so wish I could, but I can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sheriff Walker nodded slowly, raised his left hand, and interjected, \u201cBut it takes a pretty big fellow to admit that. You\u2019re an honest man, and your opinion \u2019bout this here thing is just as good as anybody else\u2019s. Heck, y\u2019all are the ones who were right smack in the thick of it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThank you, sir,\u201d Clyde replied as Sedona smiled warmly at the sheriff.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Several people had arrived at the department talking loudly, and the sheriff asked the couple to close the door which Sedona did.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNow this whole thing is mighty weird all right,\u201d the sheriff continued, \u201cand we\u2019ll send a deputy to the park to check it out directly. Heck, it\u2019s been a slow night. So I\u2019m liable to go myself. Y\u2019all can come with me if you like. I \u2019spect you\u2019ll want to check on your car. Sure hope it didn\u2019t blow away.\u201d He grinned<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSheriff, you don\u2019t think there\u2019s any possibility we could\u2019ve encountered a UFO?\u201d Sedona asked. \u201cAnd, if not, how do you<\/em> explain it all? And surely you\u2019ll acknowledge the pictures and video are real.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cHoney, I don\u2019t doubt everything y\u2019all said was real. It may all be the gospel truth,\u201d Sheriff Walker replied with outstretched hands. \u201cI just can\u2019t explain it, and I sure can\u2019t leap to any conclusion that it was some kind of alien space vehicle deciding to land in these parts on such a stormy night. No\u2019am, I\u2019m \u2019fraid that dog just won\u2019t hunt. Now maybe with some more corroborating evidence, but not yet.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cFair enough,\u201d she replied. \u201cThanks for hearing us out. We do appreciate your time and all your kindness.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAnd for not laughing at us after all we\u2019ve been through,\u201d Clyde added with a chuckle.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNo, no,\u201d Sheriff Walker declared. \u201cY\u2019all strike me as good, honest folks and I admire you for coming forward \u2013 and I want y\u2019all to be sure and fill out a detailed report describing everything you just told me. Plus I\u2019d \u2019preciate if you\u2019d text me those pictures and video.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWill do,\u201d the pair chimed together.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The sheriff\u2019s phone rang and he picked it up as Clyde and Sedona looked at each other, exhaled, and smiled. Sedona leaned her head on his shoulder and he put his arm around her.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cDo what?\u201d Sheriff Walker asked over the phone with a perplexed look. \u201cUm-hmm\u2026. Okay. \u2026 All right\u2026. Well, tell \u2019em we\u2019ll check it out\u2026. Oh, yes. Right away\u2026. Yes ma\u2019am. You can quote me that we\u2019ll deal with it directly \u2013 right now, and I\u2019ll go myself.\u201d The sheriff hung up the phone, frowned, scribbled some notes, and quickly gathered some items before reaching for his hat.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Even with the door closed, the voices from the other end of the hall were getting louder. Addie the receptionist knocked and opened the sheriff\u2019s door.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cSheriff Walker, can you please come to the front desk. A whole slew of folks keep coming in all excited and claiming to have just seen UFOs, strange green lights, a tornado around Ector Mountain, and just all kinds of strange doings. I can\u2019t keep up with it all \u2013 and the phone\u2019s ringing off the hook with folks calling to report Wilcox Valley was completely lit up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sedona and Clyde locked eyes and broke into a mutual grin as Sheriff Walker stood looking at Addie with a frozen expression and raised eyebrows.<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWell, sheriff,\u201d Sedona spoke up. \u201cSounds like you got a whole mess of hunting dogs now.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" by Douglas Young \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Clyde Baxter and Sedona Watts held hands driving up the rural, two-lane highway. They had almost reached the mountainous Thadeus Holtzclaw State Park where Sedona had tried to get Clyde to go camping for years. Though she loved the outdoors and had many happy camping memories, Clyde preferred nature from a […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1843,77],"tags":[1565,1845,1123],"class_list":["post-16189","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-egophobia-88","category-english","tag-douglas-young","tag-egophobia-88","tag-english"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p6DakB-4d7","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16189","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=16189"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16189\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16191,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16189\/revisions\/16191"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=16189"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=16189"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egophobia.ro\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=16189"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}