I went on an adventure as a younger girl. It felt like a dream. So many islands with different ages and cultures. Yet, for some reason, I was alone. I found myself with just a notebook and a library of puzzles. How did I get there? I’m afraid I didn’t know. But, to navigate the puzzles was the only option I had to find my way home. I somehow did it. Just me and my little notebook. I still think it was a dream, but it couldn’t have been. Not when I’m staring at the islands again.
How did I get here? The first time I didn’t know and I still don’t know now. The islands don’t look like they changed. The observatory. The tall pines. Even the spaceship on the far shore. It’s all the same like time doesn’t exist. I’m not the young girl I was back then. I don’t remember the answers to the puzzles. How do I get home? Why am I here again?
I start down the dirt trodden path. I remember a secret door down by the docks. I started there before, I’ll start there again. The water laps against the creaky wood. I never touched it last time. I fear to touch it this time. All the puzzles hinted no danger, but the air between the islands. It feels like something is out there, waiting for me to make a mistake.
It takes me a minute, but I figure out how to open the door at the docks. The chamber beneath has something to help me continue. That’s what I remember, at least. It isn’t what I was expecting, though. My notebook sits upon the pedestal. I thought I brought it with me last time. How is it here?
Flipping through the pages. Looking at my notes, images, and maps. I can breath a little easier. With this gift from my younger self, I can make it home again.
nikki diekemper 