Good day Ladies and Gentlemen! My name is Zachery Blackadder. I am a Scholar of Antiquity and an employee of Kiniska’s Circus. Recently, Mrs. Vanck has noticed an interest for further details of her recently completed expedition to the Island of Handergash. To satiate that need, Mrs. Vanck has asked me to compile a record of the events prior to, during, and after the expedition so that the tale may be shared with all interested parties.
The story begins nearly three years ago with a young British sea captain, named Edmond Handergash. While sailing under the flag of the East India Trading Company, his vessel was forced to take an unexpected route due to horrendous weather in the Pacific. The vessel and crew received no damage or injuries thanks to Edmond’s quick actions, but they found themselves in uncharted waters. On their way back to more commonly traveled seaways; Edmond discovered an island not listed on any known charts. In addition, he thought he could see stone ruins on what looked like a beach of black sand. A wanderer at heart, the urge to explore this new land and add his name to the roll of famous explorers was tremendous! Alas, as his was a transport vessel far from home, Edmond did not have the proper tools to conduct an accurate survey. Nor was his crew eager to venture far afield after being blown off course. Fearing a mutiny if he tried to stop, Edmond made note of the island and continued on to British Columbia.
Upon making port, Edmond took all notes and coordinates on the island into his personal keeping. Edmond wanted to keep his discovery to himself! He then left his employer and began searching for a ship and crew to return to the island. Many a tale can be told of wide-eyed Edmond telling potential investors of how fantastic the island was despite him never setting foot on the isle. His stories of potential wealth, glory and immortality gained him an independent vessel, the Godfrey, with him in command and a crew of adventurous men ready to claim their place in history. Soon, Edmond would sail off to explore his unknown land with great pomp.
Edmond and his crew were never seen again.