The Hanging Bridge

The Hanging Bridge has crossed the ravine for longer than anyone in the surrounding settlements can remember. Its planks and ropes have been replaced many times, yet locals still speak of it as though the bridge itself has remained unchanged.

During the day, travelers cross without concern. After dark, however, many choose the longer road around the ravine. Some claim that a second set of footsteps can sometimes be heard on the bridge, following several paces behind. Others say the sound comes from beneath the planks, as though someone is slowly climbing along the underside of the bridge.

There are plenty of sensible explanations. Wind moves strangely through the ravine, the old timbers creak beneath shifting weight, and the river below can make sounds travel in unexpected ways.

Still, one piece of local advice has survived for generations:

If you hear footsteps behind you, keep walking.

Do not turn around until both feet are on solid ground.

Mystery Hook — The Crossing

A merchant traveling alone reaches a nearby settlement shortly after midnight, pale and unwilling to explain what happened on the road.

He eventually admits that someone followed him across the Hanging Bridge.

He heard the footsteps behind him from the moment he reached the middle, but remembered the old warning and never looked back.

The next morning, several locals return with him to investigate.

His footprints can still be seen in the mud leading away from the bridge.

Beside them is a second set.

They follow him for nearly half a mile.

And then simply stop.