Heart of the Mountain
Copyright© 2026 by WittyUserName
Chapter 21
Horror Sex Story: Chapter 21 - The awakening of something ancient. Tragedy, horror, and romance mix. Will there be a happy ending?
Caution: This Horror Sex Story contains strong sexual content, including Ma/Fa Consensual Romantic Fiction Horror Paranormal
~Friday 14 August, 2026~
6:03 PM
“Good evening!” the chipper news anchor began with a radiant smile, “I’m Rebecca Collins, and we begin tonight with breaking news from the Adirondacks.”
The television screen changed to an aerial view of Deer Ridge. Sunlight illuminated the densely forested mountainside, while a narrow hiking trail wound between the tall pines. Several large rocks and granite outcroppings broke up the near-endless sea of green.
A red banner stretched across the bottom of the screen.
“DEER RIDGE TRAILS TO REOPEN MONDAY.”
“After weeks of uncertainty, authorities have announced that the Deer Ridge trail system will officially reopen to the public Monday morning.”
The screen shifted to a wooden trailhead sign that was labeled as the entrance to Deer Ridge. Yellow police tape still stretched across the entrance, and a temporary notice warned visitors that the area was closed.
“Deer Ridge has been at the center of a series of mysterious disappearances and fatal attacks that began in late June,” Rebecca continued. “Eleven people tragically lost their lives during the incidents, including a four-person rescue team. The attacks prompted an extensive investigation involving local law enforcement, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation personnel, and multiple search-and-rescue teams.”
A photograph of Jake Glasner and Emma Sinclair replaced the view of the trail.
“The first victims, twenty-eight-year-old Jake Glasner and twenty-five-year-old Emma Sinclair, were reported missing after failing to return from a weekend camping trip. Their disappearance was initially believed to be an isolated incident.”
The photograph disappeared, replaced by footage of emergency vehicles parked along a forest road.
“However, additional attacks over the following days led authorities to close the surrounding trails and launch one of the largest search-and-rescue operations in the region’s recent history.”
Four pictures then filled the screen. The images were of Deputy Eric Walsh, DEC Officer Maria Rodriguez, EMT Sam Haloon, and technical-rescue specialist Marcus Smith.
“Among those killed during the investigation were several emergency responders. Officials have praised their courage and sacrifice, and memorial services have been held throughout the region.”
Rebecca finished speaking, then the broadcast cut to a recorded press conference. Sheriff Daniel Harper stood behind a podium bearing the county seal. He had a few scrapes on his face, and the edge of a bandage was visible beneath his collar. Several microphones were positioned in front of him.
“Following an extensive investigation,” Dan Harper began, “we are satisfied that the immediate threat responsible for these incidents has been eliminated. We have consulted with the Department of Environmental Conservation and other agencies, all of whom have assured us the trail system can safely reopen.”
A reporter raised his hand. “Sheriff, can you confirm what kind of animal was responsible?”
Harper’s expression remained composed. “We encountered an exceptionally large and aggressive animal during the investigation. Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to establish a definitive species identification.”
“Was the animal killed?” the reporter asked.
“Yes.”
“Then why haven’t authorities released photographs?” someone shouted from the back.
Harper paused. “Photographs and other materials collected during the investigation remain part of an active case. We’re not releasing them at this time.”
Another reporter spoke. “Can you address the rumors that the animal was some kind of unknown creature?”
“I’m aware of the rumors,” Harper replied with a tired smile. “I understand why people are frightened. I would encourage everyone to remember that eleven people have lost their lives. They, and their families, deserve our respect. They don’t need sensational stories seeking to profit off a tragedy.”
News anchor Rebecca Collins reappeared on screen. “Authorities have declined to provide further details about the animal responsible for these attacks, citing an ongoing investigation. However, Sheriff Harper emphasized there is no evidence of any continuing threat to visitors.”
Rebecca paused before continuing. “In addition to the four-person rescue team and the vacationing couple, there were two other attacks, resulting in the loss of five lives. Four local teens were attacked while celebrating Independence Day.
“Ryan Mercer, Mason Delgado, and Olivia Grant were killed, but eighteen-year-old Chloe Whitaker survived and was rushed to the hospital.”
Rebecca took a breath. “Finally, Tyler Norton and Madison Cole were killed while trying to capture footage for their web show.”
The screen changed to an image of the sheer granite cliff.
“During the search, investigators discovered a cavern containing human remains. Authorities confirmed that seven of the recently-deceased victims were recovered. Additional remains, believed to be considerably older, are undergoing forensic examination.
“Authorities say the families of all eleven victims have been notified of the investigation’s findings. While many questions remain, officials hope the discoveries will provide closure and allow the community to heal.”
The image changed to one of the local town.
“For weeks, the trail closures and frightening reports have kept visitors away from the area,” Rebecca said. “With authorities now declaring the trails safe, many businesses are optimistic.”
The camera shifted to a middle-aged man standing outside a general store. He was standing with a young woman who was holding a microphone. There was a caption that identified the man.
“ROBERT MILLER – LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER.”
“We’ve definitely felt it,” Miller said. “Usually this time of year, we’ve got tourists coming through every day. People buying supplies, stopping for lunch, staying at the hotels. It’s been a tough month.”
“Are you concerned about reopening the trails?” the pretty female reporter asked.
Miller shrugged. “What happened was terrible; nobody’s forgetting that. But if the sheriff and the DEC say it’s safe, I trust them. People love these mountains. I think they’re ready to come back.”
The reporter nodded. “And apparently some people have even found a little humor in the situation. As well as a great opportunity to recover lost business.”
The camera turned toward a display near the store entrance. Several brightly colored t-shirts hung from a rack. Across the front of each were six large words.
“I SURVIVED THE DEER RIDGE MONSTER.”
The reporter smiled as the camera returned to her and Miller. “These novelty shirts have become something of a local sensation, with several businesses reporting strong sales.”
“People started asking for them after a few people bought them online,” Miller explained with a chuckle. “Figured we might as well give the people what they want.”
“Do you believe there really was a monster?” the reporter asked
Miller laughed. “I believe something was out there attacking people. Beyond that? I’ll leave it to the experts.”