01-05 - The ornithopter

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(Published 16-Oct-2020 22:00:50)

 Brushing dust off his shoulders, St'phan took one last look at the windows and the walkers and rose into the air. Footfalls were replaced with the chittering of birds. Chimney smoke was replaced with oddly shaped clouds. And St'phan found himself high above the floating island he had stood upon moments before.


In mid-air, St'phan faced away from the brilliant blue sun - and saw several other floating islands. Envisioning a moment of relaxation, St'phan headed toward one that seemed completely covered in grass and trees. Landing with a gentle arc, St'phan stepped gingerly on the grass and listened for insects and other biting things - the soft breeze soothed him and he decided to look for a spot to camp for the night.


As St'phan reached the top of a small hill, the other side revealed two long, black rectangles on the ground. On either side of the long black rectangles were lines of oddly iridescent moss. Reaching down to touch the moss, St'phan bowed his head to smell the moss - when a giant metallic bird flew just over-head and skidded to a halt on the black rectangles.


In spite of the fact it had already landed, St'phan ducked and tumbled to the ground.


"You really should look alive. I almost nailed you."


Still sitting on the ground, St'phan looked for the source of the voice. Quiet footfalls betrayed a pig with an aviator hat and a trench-coat.


Reaching out a hoof in a glove, the pilot helped St'phan to his feet.


"Nice to meet you," said the pilot. "I've been flying Betty for a long while - never seen you here before."


Brushing dirt and grass off his legs, St'phan stared at the large metal bird and backed away slowly.


"Careful son," said the pilot. "If you walk too far in that direction, you're likely to fall!"


St'phan stopped, turned to look at the pilot, and rose a foot into the air.


"Well," said the pilot. "That explains how you got here."

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