Pages ripped from the journal of Red Jeffreys, dated 16 August 1833—Skeleton Peak, Rocky Mountains:

Having penned no entries for nigh on four weeks, I return to this journal in secret, fearing the Reverend will see my lamentations, burn my pages, and have me beaten. Factions have formed in our party, and I suspect Whiskey Nelson, Ben Loving, and a few others are watching the rest of us.

Tomorrow marks one month since the Enforcers kidnapped Erin Hart from her home near the Platte. The Reverend teaches no compassion, only cruelty. For this reason, I cannot speak out about Miss Hart. I will lose everything if I speak—the wisdom of the Black Verse, the chance to claim eternal life. Many of my companions, particularly Black Wood and Em O’Brien, feel disheartened by her mistreatment. Miss Hart herself remains strong.

This evening, before the first signs of twilight fell upon the mountains, our company arrived at a ghastly summit known as Skeleton Peak. The cliffside resembles a great skull, a sight that made me shiver.

At dusk we approached the Peak’s abandoned mining camp. I heard Black Wood whisper assurances to Miss Hart. I have witnessed something grow between the two. I have heard Black Wood swear an oath to Miss Hart that she would be freed before summer’s end. But now that we have arrived at the place of power, I worry Black Wood will not be able to keep that promise.

Tomorrow at first light we will enter Skeleton Peak and search for the Key of Enoch. I fear for Miss Hart’s safety and for the safety of my good companions.

—R.J.