Microscape 2

The largely featureless nature of the flat, grey terrain only served to emphasise the impact of those brightly-coloured zones that have been clearly been marked out for some, as yet unknown purpose.  We spent some time taking measurements and marvelled at the formality and accuracy of their layout.  We were also struck by the precision of their alignment, both to each other, and to the huge drainage or ventilation feature which lay some moderate distance away.

With the use of harnesses and climbing ropes, we were able to venture across the face of this latter feature, and even to lower ourselves some short distance down into the cavernous space below.  A full investigation of this subterranean dimension must wait until time and resources are found for further survey expeditions [1.].  This is all the more frustrating, as our initial findings suggest there may be an immense network of unexplained infrastructure, or even evidence of a parallel society beneath the surface features already charted.

Returning to the surface, we spent several more hours in searching for some clue to the purpose of the vivid, geometric plots.  Whilst their numbering system is coherent enough, we were unable to ascertain any clear relationship between that and the contrasting colours which distinguish each allotment from its neighbours.  Regretfully, we can reach no conclusion on whether  these features are of economic, navigational, or indeed, ritual significance [2.].  However, their importance seems indisputable, judging by the care with which they have been both created and maintained.

Having spent many hours exposed upon the flat, grey plain, it came as some relief to finally be in reach of its margin.  We made camp beneath the vast canopy-like structure which, despite its impressive scale, feels like it has been deliberately placed in this landscape for the comfort of weary travellers.  From beneath its overarching roof, we gazed out towards the bright red and white, conical beacons that were our next goal, and to wonder what force, (be it deliberate or accidental), had toppled the most distant one which now lays upon its side.

Moving, with relief, into the more verdant terrain beyond the margins of the plain, it was decided that an ascent to higher ground would afford the best overview of all the features already described.  From here, we were able to fully appreciate their true relationships, take numerous bearings, and double-check the accuracy of our earlier measurements.  We were also able to gaze in wonder, once more, at the immense, black monolith, and even taller, twin mast structure that first drew us to this landscape [3.].



[1.]:  It is to be hoped that serious consideration of the funding of such expeditions be treated as a priority by the Committee, once this report has been formally submitted.  It should be obvious to all, we believe, that our initial surveys of this mysterious landscape have, to date, merely scratched the surface.  It is our opinion that much still remains to be discovered here, and that further, in-depth research into the whole region may pay considerable dividends.

[2.]:  In the process of drafting this report, the authors have been approached by two members of our expedition team.  They express the opinion that these features may actually be recreational in nature.  They may, it is contended, constitute the formal playing arena for some popular but unknown sporting activity.  We are content to keep an open mind on this subject, and to propose it as a topic for future research.

[3.]:  Full descriptions of these features were included in the report of our initial reconnoissance expedition.