Mason
👤 SpeakerAppearances Over Time
Podcast Appearances
I turned too, and I saw him.
The person was on the trail behind us, maybe 30 yards back, not hiding behind a tree now, standing in the open, rain dripping off his hood.
For the first time, I could see a face.
Not clearly because of distance and rain, but enough.
Pale skin, a beard that looked patchy and untrimmed, eyes that didn't blink much.
and something in his expression that wasn't rage exactly.
It was calmer than that.
Focused.
He held something in his hand.
At first I thought it was a walking stick.
Then I realized it was a long knife or a machete, the blade catching light.
Mason's voice was harsh.
Back off.
The man didn't answer.
He took one step forward.
Mason pulled the bear spray from his pack strap, thumb on the safety.
The man stopped.
He tilted his head slightly like he was curious.
Then he smiled.
It was not a big grin.