Tomb Raider - A Lara Croft's story by stefany_andrade

Tomb Raider: A Lara Croft’s story

history by Cristal Dynamics

Stefany Andrade 2021

This edition first published in 2021 by Stefany Andrade Publishing Limited 23 Lunar Crescent London under the Crystal Dynamics imprint ISBN 950 I 2300200 05 9 Introduction and text copyright © Stefany Andrade Publishing Limited 2021 All rights reserved. This publication or any part thereof may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, eletronical, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission in writing from the publishers Edited by Stefany Andrade Cover and llustrations by Stefany Andrade

This book is dedicated to all fans and players, this story wouldn’t exist without you

Table of Contents Part 1 - Tomb Raider I. II. III. IV. V. VI.

Chapter - Lara’s Journal Chapter - Ancient Scrolls Chapter - Diaries of a Madman Chapter - Endurance Officers Chapter - Confessions of Solarii Chapter - Wartime Intelligence

12 17 24 29 35 39

Part 2 - Rise of the Tomb Raider VII. VIII. IX. X. XI. XII.

Chapter - Journal of lord Croft Chapter - Sessions Chapter - Camp Journals Chapter - Camp Journals II Chapter - Camp Journals III Chapter - Camp Journals IV

46 51 56 61 66 70

Tomb Raider: A Lara Croft’s story

Part 1

Tomb Raider

Lara’s Journal

shipwrecked

ow do I start...? Okay. This is Lara Croft - an archeologist from The Endurance, shipwrecked on an island in the Dragon’s Triangle - east of Japan.

This place is incredible. I’ve seen wrecks here that could date back centuries. We weren’t the first and I know we’re not alone. Something isn’t right about this place. If I don’t get off this island, maybe someone will eventually find this. 12

nightmares The thing about nightmares is sooner or later, you wake up. But there’s no waking up from this place. Which means I’m really here, I’m really doing these things. No. Don’t think about it, Lara. Not now. It won’t help. I don’t know what’s happened to the rest of the crew. I hope they’re okay. They have to be. They have to be. I don’t know what the hell is going on here, but all that matters is that Roth finds a way to get us home.

prepared for the worst Thank god for Roth’s training. All those treks, all those climbs... It’s as if he’d been preparing me for something like this all along. It’s clear that there are people living here. And they’re organized. They’re killing and recruiting, but why? It’s like some kind of cult. But a cult of what? What do they want? What are they looking for?

ancient guardians Just when I thought things couldn’t get worse. What were those things in the monastery? They were dressed like the Stormguard, and the sounds they made, almost... inhuman. Shit, just listen to yourself, Lara. You sound like dad. It’s like they’re the remnants of some lost civilization. Okay, now I really sound like dad. All I know is they killed those men, and I have a feeling they wouldn’t hesitate to kill me too. But I can’t think about this now. Sam’s in trouble and I’ve got to get her back. She’s counting on me..

no escape Madness. That’s what this place is. Mathias thinks Himiko’s spirit is keeping us here. That’s not possible... it’s not possible. But he’s so beyond crazy that maybe he’s come right back round to some kind of sane. The helicopter isn’t our way off. You know that, Lara - in your gut. I have to warn the others. If we board it, we’re dead. 14

don’t think, don’t feel Tears won’t bring me back, girl. That’s what Roth would’ve said. I just can’t believe he’s gone, no more stories about my parents, no more mountain climbs. God, I wish they’d killed me instead. But they didn’t. I’m here, I’m alive and I’m certain that no boat or plane is going to get us off this island, at least not yet. I know the answer has something to do with Himiko and that monastery. I have to do something, I have to stop this.

the promise If I’m going to get to the ritual chamber in that monastery, we need to fix that boat. I don’t know how I’m going to convince the others to take it inland, rather than off this island, but I have to find a way. Reyes won’t be easy. She wants to get back to her daughter, and she’s is pain over Roth. We all are. I still don’t know exactly why Mathias wanted Sam in the first place, but it doesn’t matter. She’s back with us now; she’s safe. 15

the monastery The prayer I found on that General talked about a soul in a decaying body being the cause of the storms. I know he must be talking about the last Sun Queen, but I don’t understand what Himiko has to do with this. She was the first Queen. Somehow Mathias thinks Sam’s connected. And that can’t be good. Damn you Whitman! You’ll do anything for a story. I know the answer is inside that ritual chamber, but getting to it won’t be easy. The Stormguard are devoted to guarding it. I know I have to do this, but I’m so scared of what I’m going to find in there.

the truth I used to be so certain of the truth. But after what I’ve seen... what I’ve done, I don’t know what to believe anymore. This island has taken everything from me. I’m going to make sure I take as much in return. All its secrets. It owes me that. I have to find answers. I need to understand. 16

Ancient Scrolls

ambassador: first impression

fter a fortnight I was at last granted an audience with her majesty, Himiko of Yamatai. I must confess, she is unlike any woman I have ever encountered. Beautiful, yet inscrutable; calculating, even. She surrounds herself with her Priestesses of the Sun. No men attend her, save the general of her armies. When I met with her alone, I came to realize that she is not at all what she seems.

I was sent by my lord to spy on her... to assess the strength of her armies. But now I feel she is the one assessing me. My lord has perhaps underestimated the threat of Yamatai. Though I cannot gauge the true strength of her Stormguard, I cannot deny a powerful feeling that the Sun Queen should not be trifled with.

ambassador: discoveries I have spoken to some of the villagers on the island. I was expressly forbidden to leave the palace, but this did not stop me. My duties here are clear, I must learn the truth! But the stories I uncovered defy belief. Rumors abound of the Queen’s communion with the spiritual world. They say she commands the sun and the rain, that her lands are abundant by her will alone. This is certainly nonsense, but what can be the cause of such whispers? Is this how she controls her people, by engaging their primitive superstitions? I saw absolute reverence in their eyes when they spoke of her, yet I also sensed fear. Her people are 18

treated with fairness, taxed reasonably and are well protected by her Stormguard. No wonder some of them even pray to her! It’s as if she were more than just a Queen to them. Spreading discontent through her people may well be a harder task than I imagined.

hoshi: answering the call Today I am Hoshi, daughter of Hiiro and Kokoro. Tomorrow, I will be Hoshi, Daughter of the Sun. The Queen has spoken and I was given the robes. Every girl in every village dreams of this honor. Mother cannot stop crying and father is beaming with pride. I have never seen him smile so much. This greatest of honors will raise my family to the heights of Yamatai society. We will want for nothing. And someday the Sun Queen may even choose me to take her place. And yet... I cannot deny my feelings. At first I dismissed them as simple nerves, but the unease has grown within me. I could never refuse the call, to do so would invite ruin to my family. But I am frightened of my Queen. 19

ambassador: dark tidings It is time for me to leave this accursed island. I have seen enough of Yamatai. I cannot explain the power the Sun Queen wields, but it is not of this earthly plane. As I suspected, she knew my intent the moment I set foot on this island. She has manipulated me, toyed with me to see what information I would seek, but she always knew. If I am allowed to leave this place alive, I must warn my lord, warn him that we should avoid Yamatai at all costs. If we wish access to her seas, we should pay any tributes she requires, but we should never cross the Sun Queen. To do so would lead to our ruin. Of the other things I have seen... those dark horrors, I can never speak of again.

hoshi: at her side I want for nothing now. As a Priestess of the Sun Queen, I stand above all others in her court. I am being instructed in languages, etiquette, history, warfare – all the skills needed to rule. And the Queen has been like a mother to me. Warm, attentive, loving. But it all feels false, like 20

some kind of performance. When I talk to the other Priestesses, I sense disquiet. Some of them feel as I do, perhaps all of them. But why? What is it that we all fear?

general: the oath My Queen, as I stand in your light, I swear this oath of allegiance to you. As your first Stormguard and General of your armies, I will serve you unconditionally and protect the lands of Yamatai and all your people. I will stand at your side for the remainder of my days, relinquishing my post only at your command. If I should fail in my duties, my life is forfeit. My heart beats at your command, my breath is drawn at your pleasure. From this moment onwards, I answer only to you.

general: the conquerors Stormguard Warriors, today we stand on the brink of a great change. The enemy fleet that sails to our shore will be the last to ever attempt an invasion of our beloved Yamatai. The rage of our great Sun Queen will raise up a mighty storm and we will ride forth upon the winds to destroy them. 21

But when we emerge victorious, we will not stop. A new day will dawn as our Queen’s light will reach across the ocean to touch all lands. While we of Yamatai bask in the warmth of her grace, those who oppose us will burn.

hoshi: in her image The Sun Queen grows old. Soon she will choose her successor. I fear it will be me. I am now her favorite. She dotes on me, calls me her precious first daughter. Like a doll, she always keeps me close to her, brushing my hair, dressing me in her favorite clothes. It unsettles me beyond words. But more disturbing, she constantly gazes upon my features as if... as if she’s looking at her own reflection.

general: failure of duty I have failed my queen. The ritual was corrupted. The priestess knew only death could save her and took her own life. Now the first and last Sun Queen lives a half-life, a soul in a decaying body. 22

She rages in storms which will never abate while her soul is tied to this earth. My Stormguard are sworn to protect her; they must continue, but I cannot.

Hoshi: An End I have no choice now but to meet my fate. Tonight I climb the stairs to the Chamber of the Sun. But I will never submit to the ritual – I will not emerge Queen. None will ever believe what I now know to be the truth. A twisted evil beyond imagining lives within the Sun Queen. An evil that hungers for more than just the land and seas of Yamatai. This madness cannot continue! So I go to the chamber, armed with the stolen dagger of her Stormguard General. By the time he realizes what I have done, it will be too late. For the sake of Yamatai, and all the priestesses that would follow me... I must die.

III

Diaries of a Madman

stranded

25 july 1982

ays have passed since the plane crash. For a second time, we attempted to escape by boat... with disastrous results. I knew it would happen. Just like the first time, the calm sea turned hostile with no explanation. The moment we made for open water, the wind picked up followed by... an impossible wave. Like a child’s toy, our lifeboat was smashed violently into the rocky shore.

Now, two more lie dead. And another is wounded beyond help. The others are starting to panic... and they’re looking to me for a plan. I do have one, but it doesn’t include them. They are weak and stupid... a liability in this place. I suggested they make another attempt to leave, but I won’t join them. To do so would be suicide. This is clear to me now.

alone 6 september 1982 I am alone now. The rest of them are dead. This is for the best. I watched from the cliffs as their makeshift boat was tossed and turned by the storms. The clouds looked like a hand upon the water, desperately clawing at their doomed boat. None survived the wrath of the storm. I observed it carefully - the storm was localized and sudden. And just as suddenly it was gone. And this is the most interesting detail: it didn’t seem random. I sensed... emotion, something deliberate. I don’t know what’s happening on this island. Not yet. But if I ever hope to escape, I must understand this phenomenon. Now my real work begins. 25

Research 17 september 1982

A plan is taking shape in my mind. In order to unlock the power of this island, I first need to understand what has happened here. I need time and room to study this place. There are many mysteries here; foremost of which, the ruins of an ancient Japanese Empire... and a mysterious Queen. It all started with her.

the solarii 13 October 1990 Over the years, there have been other survivors, but I have avoided them. And if they got in my way... I was not merciful. But now I know I need others. In order to move forward, I must fully control this island. So I will gather a small group of loyal followers. They must understand power and the need to organize. But more importantly, they cannot hesitate to kill or use violence. It will be part of their life here. They will need structure and purpose and work. But when this island is mine, I will discover the true secret of the storms. 26

belief 24 October 1994 My patience has been rewarded. At long last, I have my lieutenants, my enforcers of the way. The storms brought me exactly the men I need to begin building the Solarii Brotherhood. Strong of body, weak of will. They were broken in the storms, weakened and vulnerable. And I raised them up again. Now they serve me, and through me... her. The Sun Queen. She is showing me the way. She has always shown me the way. I cannot deny what I have seen. And soon, neither will they. She is everywhere on this island! But... the Solarii Brotherhood must grow. We will recruit as many as we can. I will draft laws, create a code for them to live by. And they will build for the Sun Queen while I search for the key.

obsession 21 january 1997 The Solarii, my warriors of the sun, they have grown strong in number. And I have discovered everything I require to move my plans forward. It is time for us to move inland. 27

We will build our city high up in the mountains, around the old palace. From there we can protect ourselves from the Oni guardians and I can access all points on the island swiftly. I must be prepared to capture anyone who comes to this place. I know now what I seek. The key to escaping this place... and perhaps much, much more. It may take years, but I will find her.

lost 5 june 2011 The years pass and I now hear her whispers in my sleep. It is the Sun Queen... she is urging me on. I see her magnificent face with every sunrise. Soon now... My Solarii toil in her name, building a city from all that she has brought to the island, torturing and sacrificing in her name. Soon now... we will find the one. I long for escape, but not simply from this island. From all of this... the wrecks, bodies, and squalor. If I can bring my Queen back, it will all vanish in an instant. And like the sun rising anew, she will bathe all the land and seas with her light, burning away everything. I will emerge from this scorched earth... reborn and pure. 28

Endurance Officers

whitman: don’t leave me

arling, think! Think before filing those papers. I’ve sunk the last of my fortune into this expedition. But it’s all going to come back tenfold. If you divorce me now, you won’t see a penny of it. 29

You’ve been with me since I was nothing. You know what I’m capable of achieving. I haven’t lost my touch, I’m just at a low point right now, don’t you see? I’m on to something here. Lara, you remember her. My young protégée... she has real data to back up her theories, but she doesn’t have my savvy. It’s going to be my name on the discovery and my face in front of the cameras. If this all pans out, the show will be huge! If you want to leave me then, I promise I won’t fight you. But please... just wait on it. I can’t have this kind of publicity muddling my image. Please!

reyes: dear roth The years pass and I now hear her whispers in my sleep. It is the Sun Queen... she is urging me on. I see her magnificent face with every sunrise. Soon now... My Solarii toil in her name, building a city from all that she has brought to the island, torturing and sacrificing in her name. Soon now... we will find the one. I long for escape, but not simply from this island. From all of this... the wrecks, bodies, and squalor. If I can bring my Queen back, it will all vanish in an instant. 30

And like the sun rising anew, she will bathe all the land and seas with her light, burning away everything. I will emerge from this scorched earth... reborn and pure.

reyes: dear alisha Alisha, honey, I didn’t want to write this, but if I don’t do it now, I might not have another chance. Your mama got herself into some trouble... and... I might have to be gone for a very long time. I don’t know when or if you’ll ever read this, but I want you to know I fought for you. Everything I did in my life was for you – all the time away, all the money I saved, all the sacrifices. I’m sorry for everything you’re gonna have to go through without me. If I don’t make it back, find Conrad Roth. You’ve never met him, but he’s the best man I’ve ever known. And he’s your father. You have his eyes. You’re the light of my life and I love you more than anything.

whitman: my great discovery This island is more than I could have hoped for. Of course, these islanders are absolutely insane, and 31

those poor people from the Endurance... So tragic. But honestly, it adds to the drama! Not only is this the mythical land of Yamatai, but the shipwrecks... and the modern day cultists. It warrants at least two documentaries. Maybe even a series! Good lord, this place is going to ignite the world’s imagination! And I’m going to be right in the center of it all. Such a huge relief... all my chips were on this one number. I just need to be careful now. This situation could spin out of control on a dime. Once I have this Mathias fellow’s ear, I can convince him that there’s much to gain in cooperating. I mean, he can’t honestly believe the things he preaches to these men, right? They’re just lost and confused. I’ll help to bring them all back to civilization. The sponsors are going to line up for this exclusive! The story is huge!

roth: an apology Lara, I’m sorry. I got you into this mess. I made a promise to your father. The last time I saw him, I swore I would look after you, keep you out of trouble. And what did I do? I put you right in the thick of it. Now you’re the one looking after me. You know, you’re just like your father. He was smarter, wiser, and stronger than anyone I knew. And he never gave up, no matter how tough things 32

got. I worry about you, but I know if there’s anyone who can survive this place, it’s Lara Croft. Whatever happens, I want you to know that I loved you like the daughter I never had. I’m proud of you.

reyes: about lara Roth, I know you want me to ease off Lara. But I’m hard on her for a reason. This big expensive ship and all its people are heading into uncharted, dangerous waters based on her theories. Lara needs to understand the weight of that responsibility. I know it was your call, but sometimes I think you forget that she isn’t actually your daughter. No one else could get away with steering the Endurance into Dragon’s Triangle without at least some hard evidence. So you tell me – what convinced you? She’s smart, I’ll give her that. And I admit the expedition has potential. But big ideas and grand plans will only get us so far. You know as well as I do, nothing like this ever goes according to plan. Lara’s green – if the shit hits the fan and she screws up, someone’s gonna get hurt. Maybe it’ll all play out fine. But until we’re sailing home safe and sound with a pile of riches, I’m not giving that girl any slack. 33

Whitman: Crossing the Line Well, it had to be done. Lara left me no choice. If I thought she could play the game, I might have let her in on my plan. But she doesn’t have the grit for this business. She isn’t ruthless enough. And this discovery has to be mine. I’ve crossed the line. It won’t look good, so... as unfortunate as it may be, she can’t make it off this island. None of them can. And whatever happens with Sam... it just makes this whole story all the more newsworthy. I don’t think Mathias or his Solarii can be reasoned with, so I’ll need to slip away as soon as this ritual is completed. I’ll make the perfect sole survivor, returning with the authorities, the cameras... and an appropriately convincing expression of sorrow.

Confessions of Solarii

the solarii

13 October 1990

hen we washed up on this rock, the rain and wind pounded us for days. We couldn’t build shelter or forage for food... Christ, we couldn’t even move. It was like some enormous hand was holding us down.

Just as the storm was finally breaking, Father Mathias came to us. He was calm and soft-spoken. He seemed to know us... our names, where we were from. He spoke to us in our native 35

language. And we listened. And as we listened, he told us the truth of this island. He offered us a choice: salvation or death. Some chose to defy him. And without hesitation, he killed them then and there. Father Mathias didn’t seem malicious or angry, just calm and decisive. As I stood there in the sand, wet with the blood of my comrades, I knew I could never refuse him.

the best job For better or worse, I now follow Father Mathias. If I’m going to be stuck on this island, at least I have the best possible job. He calls me his first Solarii. Mathias might be insane, but he’s smart and dangerous. He knows things about this island. I believe he’s our only chance of ever getting out of here. Mathias keeps us happy. We control the guns and the food. Anything the storms bring to this island is ours and we decide the fate of any new survivors. Any who defy us are killed. We’re masters of this fucked up prison. 36

survival of the fittest Mathias has us look for physically strong men for the brotherhood... but none too smart. They must be willing to take orders and work. Any who question or resist are immediately killed. And the women... Mathias decides their fate. Most are sacrificed to the dark walkers... but some are chosen for the ritual. We put up with this insane ceremony. Some brothers are even starting to believe in it. Something clearly controls the storms around this cursed island and it will never let us leave. Father Mathias claims to speak to it... her. This Sun Queen spirit, or whatever it is. I don’t know what to believe. I’m just doing what I can to survive.

toil and distraction There are over a hundred of us now. We’ve started work clearing out the old palace and soon construction will begin on a city around the base of the mountain. The Japanese built a cargo hauling system here years ago that we’ve gotten up and running again. Mathias claims we’re building in honor of the Sun 37

Queen, like some ancient Egyptian monument. But it’s obvious what’s going on here. Mathias is stalling for time. This massive project is just to keep them distracted. Even with the rituals and storms and rampant killing, it’s only a matter of time before they turn against him. And when they do, I’ll be ready to take control.

In Her Honor Every new brother is assigned a job – a purpose in the Solarii. As long as Mathias continues to prove his spiritual connection to the Sun Queen, they will fall in line and believe. Initiation to the brotherhood is brutal. We need to destroy their humanity, so that they in turn can be inhumane. New recruits are thrown into the depths of the caverns and left to starve and fend for themselves for days... sometimes weeks. Those who make it out alive are welcomed with open arms. I still can’t explain what kind of power Mathias has tapped into, but I don’t care anymore. We’re never getting off his goddamned island – some days I’m convinced we’re all in hell already. God knows with the things we’ve done... we might as well be. 38

Wartime Intelligence

scientist: secret project expedition field report:

espite loss of two cargo ships to intense storms, the expedition has made landfall. We’ve established a communications center high in the mountains and coastal base construction has commenced. Initial surveys have revealed several possible excavation sites. The island is much larger than we originally anticipated and layered with many centuries of history. The task of identifying the source of the 39

storms will be long and arduous, but if we succeed in our mission here, our victory in this war will be certain.

soldier: oni stalkers It... it happened again. Private Kosuke. He was on gate duty last night. No one heard anything. And this morning, they found his helmet... nothing else. No tracks of his leaving, no blood, no shell casings, nothing! The others are talking about Chinese partisans, maybe even American G.I.’s. Damned fools! They have no idea what’s happening here. It is the Oni who stalk us. The restless, evil spirits, they live in the old places of this island. We are trespassers here, and they are watching us, waiting. All these wrecks, the ruins... this entire island is a graveyard. It’s only a matter of time, the Oni will come for us.

Scientist: Secret of the Island Months of excavation has at last yielded new information concerning the weather patterns gripping this island. The tomb of an important General dating from the Kamakura period was discovered in our coastal dig site. This discovery is the missing piece of the puzzle. It will allow us to finally gain control of the storm.

soldier: awakening Soon after we discovered the tomb, they came, the Oni, First the lights went out. Then... then the screaming started. Was it us or them? That horrible sound, it still rings in my head. They wore the armor of my ancestors... they, they cut us down with ancient blades. Gunfire, shouting, blood. We couldn’t stop them. Everything turned to chaos. And then silence. They were gone. Why did they leave? Why didn’t they kill us all? Captain Osaka is in command now. We... we are leaving the base, but not the island. We’re heading 41

inland, to the Monastery. There is no other way. We must follow the Oni, all of us, If we can’t control the star, we must destroy it. But I know... we... we’re all going to die.

scientist: in search of the star Our coastal base has been attacked by unknown assailants. We suspect the Americans have arrived and are attempting to sabotage our operations. Communications have been disrupted across the island and we’ve sustained heavy losses. Many of our soldiers have simply disappeared. All remaining personnel are proceeding to the ancient monastery to ensure control of the weather phenomenon. We expect to meet heavy resistance enroute. Request reinforcement as soon as possible.

soldier: last stand We never... never had a chance. They were waiting for us, hundreds of them. We never even made it to the sacred chamber. From the beginning, we were doomed. And now I wait for my ancestors to take me. 42

I can hear them. The Oni are killing my brothers, eating them, consuming their souls. So much death. I’m the Last one. What is my fate? Will I become one of them? Ancestors hear me. Please, take me away from this, before the Oni come for me. Please take me to the afterlife. Let me die in peace.

Part 2

Rise of the Tomb Raider

VII

Journal of lord Croft

the reason received word today that university funding would be cut, again. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to continue. I face constant ridicule from people I once considered colleagues and friends. They have no idea. There is a truth behind all myth. The stories of all cultures speak a universal language and they point to a startling possibility: the world is not what we think. Our lives are not what we think.

If I continue, I face isolation. I will become a pariah. But... I will continue. For Amelia. It was her death that set me on this path. And for her, I cannot waver. i wish every night that she was still here. That I’d had the tools to help her.

regrets Lara has accused me of paranoia, again. Perhaps she’s right. But I’ve been approached by people asking to see my research. People offering no credentials. I’m sure someone is watching me. Strangers outside the manor house. Odd phone calls at odd hours. And then, last night, the house alarm was tripped. Someone had tried to break in. I believe they represent an organization called Trinity. There are oblique references to them in much of my work. What they’re after, I do not know. but I’ve begun taking steps to ensure my work remains secure. One day, I hope Lara will understand why I did all this.

invitation Received an invite today to speak at a conference on folklore and anthropology. Of course, I’ve only been invited as a figure of fun. They only want to ridicule me and my ideas. But the point of this work is not to keep it in shadows. The point is to expose it. To help bring the truth to the world. Amelia believed that it was noble to face adversity head on. That strength was born from inside oneself. she was right. she was always right... For better or worse, I will accept the invitation.

a meeting The conference was, of course, a disaster. I might as well have been booed from the podium. And yet... I am in the best mood I’ve been in years. I met someone there. An admirer. She approached me after the slaughter. I nearly flinched, expecting her to continue the beating. But instead she simply asked to hear more about my work. And when I started to talk, her questions were not loaded with cynicism. 48

Instead they were intelligent. Almost innocent in their inquisitiveness. We spoke for hours. She says her name is Ana. I’ve invited her to dine with me when we’re all back in London.

collaborator Having Ana in my life put new wind in my sails. She’s helped me focus my work - helped organize my research. She’s even offered to become my editor. I never though I’d find such an eager collaborator. Her presence in the manor has revitalized everything. The rooms have life again. I feel I have life again. But I am worried what Lara will think. Her emotions are more guarded than mine. I worry she thinks I am trying to replace her mother. But I’m not. I’m simply trying to find what happiness I can in this life. Lara will just have to understand that.

Revelations New developments. I found an old manuscript, buried and forgotten under a heap of pseudo-scientific texts. As I began translating it I realized what I had: a record of the Deathless Prophet. I am still working on the translation but already it has provided details of his life I’d never read before. There may just be enough here to find the location of his tomb. This manuscript could be it: the singular piece of research that will bring all of my work on the Immortal Soul together. Revelations are coming quickly. there is much work to be done. Tonight, over dinner, I’m going to celebrate with Ana.

VIII

Sessions

aftermath

herapist: Okay, let’s begin. It’s Tuesday, the 25th of July, and I am here with Ms. Lara Croft. How are you this afternoon, Ms. Croft? Lara: Fine. Thank you. Therapist: Ms. Croft, there’s a bit of a joke about the word “fine” in psychiatry, that it often stands for: “Feelings Inside Not Expressed”. Lara: Mmm. I thought jokes were supposed to be funny. Therapist: It’s possible I oversold its value as a joke. However, if we’re going to get anything out of our 51

time together, you need to be honest. Now, can you honestly tell me that you feel... “fine?” Lara: No. Not for a while. Ana: Lara is almost completely closed off. But it’s clear that she’s in pain. Trinity will undoubtedly want me to use this against her.

nightmares Therapist: Tell me more about the dreams... Lara: Nightmares. And I don’t remember them, just the... feelings that remain. Therapist: In dreams, the feelings are often more important than the specifics. Tell me about the feelings. Lara: I’m on the island, and my friends are dying. There’s nothing I can do, and it’s all my fault. Therapist: Lara, from what you’ve told me, your friends survived the island because of you. Lara: Only a few of them. Therapist: None of them would have survived if you hadn’t been there. It’s not your fault. Lara: None of them would have been there, if it wasn’t for me. Of course it’s all my fault. Ana: Hmm, guilt is a common driver in the Croft family. We used it to great effect with her father. Let’s see where it takes Lara...

sam Therapist: Have you reached out to the other survivors since your return? Have you been in touch with your friend Sam? Lara: You know I haven’t. Even if her doctors let me... She doesn’t want to see me. Therapist: You were very close to her, before the island. Lara: ...Don’t do this. Therapist: That must be very difficult to be separated from the people you need the most. When a trauma is shared, the healing process can be accelerated by talking to the people you shared it with. Lara: Can we not do the whole patronizing sympathy thing? You know it hurts, I’ve told you it does. But it’s what Sam wants. I have to accept that. Therapist: I can listen to what you have to say. But you have to open up to someone, Lara. You’re not alone, no matter how much you think you are. Ana: Perhaps we’re pushing her too hard. I will reach out to her and test the waters. If she is ready to open up to someone... it needs to be me.

belief Therapist: So. Lara. I want to talk about your father. I understand you’ve been asking about his research at the university. 53

Lara: I just had some questions. There’s so much in my head, but I don’t have the connections. My father was researching something very similar to what I experienced on the island. Therapist: I don’t think this will help you move on from the trauma. Quite the opposite, in fact. Lara: It’s been helping. It’s given me focus. Therapist: But your father was... how to best put this... Lara: Unhinged? Insane? Well, that’s what people are saying about me now. Therapist: Precisely my point, Lara. You can’t continue to let your emotions get the better of you. Ana: This is a good sign. Lara is getting angry. And when she’s angry, she takes action. We should push her even more... direct her anger in the right way. Trinity believes I’m wasting my time, but if there is anyone who can crack her father’s research, it’s Lara.

calm Therapist: That’s the third time you’ve mentioned Jonah today. You’ve been spending a great deal of time with him. Lara: He’s one of the few people who understand what I went through. Therapist: I worry that only spending time with him might not be healthy for you. Lara: Oh really? Care to explain? Therapist: He’s a reminder of the past. You’re going 54

back to the island in your head, over and over again, to the exclusion of everything else. Lara: Jonah makes me feel like myself, and he doesn’t charge an hourly rate. Ana: Jonah is becoming a problem. He’s a calming influence... and she listens to him. He’ll pull her away from her research. Before long I’ll need him out of the picture.

Control Therapist: Would you say you have control issues, Lara? Lara: Doesn’t everyone? I mean... no one wants to feel out of control, do they? Therapist: But not everyone has been through what you have. Lara: I had to take control of the situation... if I didn’t then we’d all have died on that island. Therapist: And did you enjoy taking control? Lara: You mean killing, don’t you? Did I enjoy killing? I did it because I had no choice! Ana: Lara is avoiding the tough questions. It’s hard to tell if she’s merely being stubborn, or she’s actually frightened of the answers. By the end of this, she may have to face a hard truth about the kind of person she’s become.

Camp Journals

familiar pain wish this pain wasn’t so familiar. Like looking an old enemy in the eye. It wants to take me down. It wants me to just lie down and die. But I won’t. I can’t. There’s something here, there must be or Trinity wouldn’t be in this snowy hell. I just hope that Jonah is okay. That he found a way back. I... I just couldn’t risk having him with me. Not again. The pain of losing him. That would be too much to bear. This is my path and mine alone. Lara’s Thoughts It wants me to just lie down and die. but I won’t...

ruins in the snow I’m on the right track. But to what, I’m not sure. I only saw the ruins for a moment before the avalanche hit, but the Byzantine style was unmistakable. To think the prophet could have led his people all this way... and more, that they built a city in this frozen wasteland. Could it actually be here? And if so, how much more of the legend is true? And now Trinity is here, thanks to me. But I can’t think about that just yet. I need to keep moving. Lara’s Thoughts On the right track…

enemy of my enemy So, there are people who live out here... and they appear to have been here for a very long time... living in isolation for decades, maybe even centuries. I noticed elements of her dress, small adornments that would not have been out of place in the Byzantine Empire. Could they possibly be descendants of the Prophet’s people? How much do they know about the Lost City or the Divine Source? Lara’s Thoughts There are people here... can they be the prophet’s descendants? 57

the face of trinity Konstantin is here, the man who tried to kill me in Syria. He’s violent, dangerous... but worse, he appears entirely devoted to his misguided beliefs. I seem to have a habit of running afoul of religious zealots. But I suppose it all goes with the territory. His men on the radio mentioned a prisoner with information... could it be one of the natives I’ve encountered? And if so, what does he know? Trinity will not be kind in their methods. Perhaps I can find him... find out what he knows. Earning the trust of these locals might prove useful. Lara’s Thoughts The man from Syria is here…

in the field Lord Croft: Roth is determined that I should learn how to shoot. However, he tried to teach me today. I was utterly hopeless. I’ve always said in the field you can’t go wrong with a stout stick and good boots. I told him I was a man of words, not of weapons. He laughed and said that he hoped I could find the right words to slow down a charging bison. I told him that that’s what he was for. Bless him for trying, though. I don’t think they’ll be anymore lessons somehow. 58

Lara: Roth always said I must’ve gotten my sharp eyes and steady hands from mom. That summer he taught me to shoot instead. I took to it... maybe too well. Lara’s Thoughts A letter from my father when he was in the field…

important work Lord Croft: I hope you received my last tape in good time. I am becoming increasingly fond of recording these messages to you. Ana says that I need time away from my books and papers every so often if only to remember why I’m doing all this. I know you hate me going away, but it will be worth it one day. It will all be worth it. Sending my love to you. Work hard in school. Lara: I know your work was important, but it didn’t feel like it at the time. Still it taught me independence, how to look after myself. Important lessons as it turns out. Lara’s Thoughts Another letter from my father... hearing his words now brings me comfort.

keep moving For the first time in weeks, things are becoming clear. I know there’s something hidden here. The Soviets came looking for it, too... and now Trinity and Ana... Ana... God, I still don’t quite believe it. All this time. Did she watch Dad as well? I’ve got to keep moving, find Jacob and join his people... if I can prove myself to them, maybe he will tell me more about this place. Lara’s Thoughts The Divine Source must be hidden somewhere in this wasteland…

A Good Man Alone again. Jacob’s gone ahead. There’s something about him that I can’t quite put my finger on. It’s strange, but almost comforting... like I could tell him anything and it wouldn’t faze him. I sense no judgement from him. Yet, at the same time, he’s hard to read. My instincts tell me he’s a good man. He saved my life - I think I can trust him, at least for now. But I can’t shake a nagging feeling that he knows more than he’s letting on. 60

Camp Journals II

connected think about Dad every day. For years, I was so angry with him. For losing himself in his work, for chasing what I thought were fairytales. I had no idea. I keep telling myself that I was young... that I couldn’t understand. But I still lost him. And now... for some reason, I feel more connected to him than I ever did when he was alive. He never got this far, but I know he’s with me. The Divine Source is here and I’m going to find it. He knew that it could change the way we understand the human soul... that it could change the world. But he’s gone now, and I’m the only one left who knows he was right. 61

lost Separated again. I just hope Jacob’s still alive. I don’t know exactly where I am. That’s rapidly becoming the story of my life. I’m fighting to survive, yet strangely... I feel hopeful. There are incredible ruins all around me. This must be part of the Prophet’s lost city. But how much more is true? the Divine Source... could it really be here?

the greater good Jacob and his people are resilient, I’ll give them that. Trinity is on their way... they could do with my help. And this Atlas from the mural - if it really is some kind of map of the ruins, I’ve got to find it before Ana. If I don’t, then all these deaths will have been in vain. And I can’t have that on my conscience.

the weight Trinity being here, the people they’re hurting... that’s down to me. I led them here. God, it’s happening again, isn’t it? People are suffering because of my actions. No, no you can’t think like 62

this, Lara, or you really will drive yourself crazy. Trinity would have found this place sooner or later. At least I have the chance to help stop them... of getting to the Divine Source first and using it to benefit the world rather than causing more pain and suffering. Just need to focus. For everyone’s who’s gone before, for everyone I’ve lost... just keep going.

the dig Lord Croft: I wish you could see the view from my tent, Lara. The dig looks so beautiful in the early evening - when the last embers of the sunlight are dying upon a good day’s work. Then one by one the fires are lit and the smell of roasting meat wafts across the camp. They tell me that it’s guinea pig. I declined it. Roth ate two. Maybe next time I’ll bring you out here too... How did your history test go? Lara: Those were my happiest memories, dad, being out on the digs with you. Especially when you gave me my own little plot to excavate. I liked that... feeling that I was part of something important. I aced that test by the way.

answers I want answers, but what choice do I have now? I can’t let Trinity wipe these people out. There are lines here that I crossed a long time ago, and there’s no going back. I’ve got to help them. It’s clear that Jacob’s people would die for him, and he for them. That kind of loyalty is rare. And to find it here, at the ends of the earth, is truly remarkable. If I fight with them, perhaps Jacob will trust me enough to tell me what’s really going on.

burden of truth So much violence and death. Jacob’s people have been through so much, yet they continue to fight. They are bound by an oath taken by their ancestors... a duty handed down from the past. But I see a people who simply want to live in peace. I believe it’s time for them to let go of the past. If I can find the Atlas, it might lead to the Divine Source. I could take it away from here, they wouldn’t have to suffer anymore. They could share the burden of truth with the world. But if all this leads to nothing... I don’t know what I’ll do.

The Darkness I’m ahead of Ana now, but I don’t know what I’ve gotten myself into here. Something else dwells in the darkness of this place. But I’ve got to continue - I’ve come too far. Ana thinks she knows me. And maybe she does, on some level. But she doesn’t know everything, and as long as she continues to underestimate me, I might still have the upper hand.

Camp Journals III

the deathless ones omeone else was attacking Trinity in the darkness beneath the Cathedral. Could it be the Deathless Ones Sofia spoke of? And if so, what part do they have to play in all this? I have so many questions. But for now, I’m just relieved... Jonah’s alive! I should have known he’d come looking for me. And thank god Jacob’s people found him before he ran afoul of trinity. I never wanted to him to follow me into danger, but I have to admit... I’m happy he’s here now.

an old friend in need They have Jonah now... and the Atlas. But if they think he knows something, there’s still a good chance they’re keeping him alive. I just hope Jonah can hold out long enough for me to find him. I have to get him back. I won’t let him die here. Hang on Jonah, I’ll find you.

memories of my mother Lord Croft: I.. I know I’ve spoken little of your mother, Lara, but I want you to know that in the brief time she spent with you she loved you utterly. We were a very happy little trio. And when we lost her... I was a wreck, I still am. I hope one day I will find answers that will stop this pain. For me it is too late, but for others... maybe not. Ah, I’m rambling now. Shouldn’t have had that nightcap. Sweet dreams, dearest. Lara: Was it all about her... those questions about life you hoped to answer? Or was that just an excuse? Maybe I reminded you of her too much. God Lara, you’re talking to a ghost... about another ghost! Maybe you need a night cap!

all in good time Lord Croft: I know that you like to read the archeological journals now, but I urge you that if you see anything written which is... less than pleasant about me... to ignore it. There are those who simply do not understand the work I’m doing here. Perhaps they’re even frightened by it. But their fear and stupidity is not my concern and neither should it be yours. I will explain everything in good time my darling girl. Lara: The people that were frightened... were they Trinity? You never told me. I guess it doesn’t matter now anyway. They’ve found their way to me. Now I’m going to have to deal with them.

the truth revealed I just have to catch my breath for a moment, this place... Kitezh... Jacob... the Deathless Ones. I’ve been running so fast for so long, I haven’t stopped to acknowledge the simple fact that all of this is real. A part of me can’t believe it. But I know Jacob was telling the truth - whatever made him is here, and I’m going to find it before Trinity. I only wish Dad was alive to share in this discovery. 68

facing the divine I don’t know what I expected an immortal being to be like, but Jacob seems so... human. The thing he must have seen over the years. All that experience and knowledge. It’s difficult to fathom. And yet he lied to his own people for generations. All for the sake of this secret. What wonders will be unlocked with the Divine Source? Will humans finally understand the true nature of the soul, or will it unlock some extraordinary new scientific discovery? One thing is certain, it’s too important to allow Trinity to control.

The Darkness Lord Croft: Before I even held you, I almost lost you, Lara. Yet you fought back, determined to live, breathe, ball your tiny fists and scream the hospital down. It was the best noise I ever heard. When I went home that snowy night I cooked myself a steak. Then I drunk half a bottle of whiskey, tried to make snow-shoes out of tennis rackets and fell asleep with the cat. I was so damn happy. 69

XII

Camp Journals IV

the dreamtime don’t have the words to describe what I just saw. I went inside the Wicked Vale, looking for Nadia’s Grandfather, but I barely escaped with my life. It was like... a fairy tale, but through a broken, filthy mirror. And... Dad... I know, intellectually, it was all in my mind, but... the gunshot is still ringing in my ears. There’s something terrible going on in there, and while I don’t believe that it is magic, it is... extraordinary. I have to find out what’s behind all this, but first, I have to find a way to see clearly...

reunited Nadia’s grandparents, split apart by the Gulag, are reunited. They all have a long and arduous road ahead. Serafima wore the mask of the Witch for so long... I don’t know if she will ever be able to fully return to the world. And Ivan dreamed of killing the Witch, to get revenge for his lost love, but they were the same woman, all along. That wound he nursed for decades won’t heal overnight. They’re survivors. We all are. But it will be difficult, it will feel impossible some days, I know. At least they’ll have a fighting chance, now that we know the truth. It may not be enough, but it’s a good start.

Lara’s Thoughts It won’t be easy, for any of them…

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