My Short Short for the Day

The pattern was clear, etched into Mia's memory so when she saw the stone, she knew it was the one. Grandfather had talked longingly of the Crystal Stone. He had many adventures seeking it, but was never successful in finding the precious stone. He spoke of the old days so fondly, that Mia had dreamed of having her own adventures one day. She vowed she would find that precious stone for Grandfather one day.

She was finally old enough to venture out beyond the village and she decided today would be the start of her grand adventure. The Crystal Stone was out there, somewhere, and she would find it and bring it back to her Grandfather. Maybe, just maybe that would make him well again. He had always been so strong but the sickness had hit her village hard and several had died. Grandfather was very ill and weak but was holding onto to life, not ready to take his final adventure beyond the clouds.

Mia tiptoed into his cabin, knelt down by his bed and whispered softly to him. “I will find the Crystal Stone, Grandfather, and bring it back for you. I promise.” He gently squeezed her hand and smiled. “You are a very special girl, Mia.” She fought away the tears and kissed her Grandfather on the forehead, then rose and walked out.

She had packed a bag the night before with some supplies and hid it under her bed. The sun was still sleeping but it would rise soon. She quietly returned home, picked up her bag and crept back outside. She silently crossed the village and disappeared into the forest. No one had saw her, no one followed, no one knew where she was going, except Grandfather and he wouldn't tell.

She was completely on her own. Her heart jumped at the thought, fear and excitement coursed through her. Straightening her shoulders she took a deep breath, settling her nerves. She had to do this, for Grandfather. He just couldn't die. Not now. Not yet.

She journeyed through the forest, climbing trees, crawling through caves, wading through streams, hiking up mountains. Days passed until she lost track of how long she had been gone. Her body had long since ceased its aching. Her focus was sharp. She ate when she could, slept when she could, but always kept searching.

And then, in the middle of a grassy field, with the sun burning bright above, a glint of light shot up from the grass. She ran toward it, heart pounding, and she knew as she stared down. She had found the Crystal Stone.