The Trail

I knew the path by the back of my hand. Nathan and I had been times since Nathan had developed a love of walking and hiking in his travels. I didn't really blame since most of his time was spent in a chair behind the desk.

I could relate.

The path beyond the tree line was deserted. I didn't think many families would let their small children go beyond there for fear of getting lost. After walking for several minutes I found beginning of the trail that disappeared into the woods, there, pinned to a sign that read "Deerwood" was a note.

Opening it I saw Nathan's cramped handwriting.

Clue Number 2:

drive into town; the places where you go when you're new here.

Below that was another line.

Sorry, I'm not that great at poetry.

I had to laugh at that, but I could see he was trying to make it fun and interesting. At least he knew how to keep me on my toes.

I did as instructed, I knew I was looking for a landmark, but which one? A text answered my next question.

Here is your next clue:

Where you go see your shows.

Grinning, I already knew where to go. There could only be one place anything would send me which would involve one of my hobbies. The most famous music arena in Nashville (other than the Opry of course).

I found the next clue outside Ryman Auditorium, having to awkwardly ask at the box office if Nathan Clarence had left a message for me.

"Are you Vivian Peters?" The woman behind the glass asked.

I nodded.

Several minutes later she returned with an envelope. It was a normal ticket envelope manila brown, which seemed slightly heavier than usual. Eagerly, I opened it.

Inside, along with the Keith Urban tickets I had been wanting for months was another clue.

V, yes before you ask I will go with you even though country music isn't really my thing. Your next clue is: steps toward grandeur where US meets ancient landmark (also famous).

Well that was a detailed clue I thought, which I was still mulling over as I got back into my car shoving the tickets into my purse. Nashville had many ancient landmarks, but which one was Nathan referring to.