Only dried grasses stirred within the domed savannah. He'd always had to live alone. I waited by his favourite baobab. Before spotting his lumbering form, I sensed his mind. His, and another's. My stomach clenched - we were promised the holidays. He welcomed me with eager, gentle strokes of his scarred trunk - no sorrow,... Continue Reading →
Earth’ling
Readings returned slightly less than optimal levels, but their shuttle-mind assured them of safety. The first creature stumbled out, overwhelmed by colours. The browns and blues and golden yellows were not where they should be. And it hadn't ever seen so much green. Their journey from the dying world began generations ago, long before their... Continue Reading →
Warm Welcome
"Pathway closed. Rift secure," announced a warm voice, filling the air around two bewildered humans. Adult and child; woman and girl. A different being approached. Human, only in appearance. "Welcome," it said, robes fluttering, "we trust your journey was painless?" "Please help," the woman held the girl close, "she's-" "Yes, we'll take care of the... Continue Reading →
The Gift
Hiding beneath the roots of a grand gum, she heard the tiny sobs.Her charge had been playing outdoors again. Did she hurt herself?The fairy, wings tucked away, peered through grass above. She could see the side of the little girl, hands cupped, tears dripping onto dusty clothes.Something hung out of her fingers.Should she let her... Continue Reading →