A Rest out of the Wind

On the dry meadow behind the hazel hedge, Puschel and Flauschi found a sheltered spot. They spread out their checked blanket. The boat stood on its own stone, away from the food. Then they cleaned their paws with water they had brought and opened the basket.

Out came prepared bread, washed apple pieces in a closed container and two cups. Flauschi put bread and fruit on the wooden plate. Puschel poured drinking water and held his cup with both paws. The hedge rustled. On their side of the leaves, it was pleasantly calm.

Puschel“I thought a big journey needed a big travel meal. Perhaps a three-storey bread tower.”

Flauschi“I would rather have bread I can reach without a ladder.”

She offered him a piece. Puschel laughed and put his cup down before taking it. They ate slowly. Nobody held up a map while chewing; nobody started tugging at the blanket. Another look at the island could wait until they had finished.

After a while, Puschel looked at the lighter basket. He did not miss the two cushions at home. He had room on the blanket, something to eat and Flauschi beside him. Even his especially brave voice needed a rest.

Puschel“Have we actually gone far enough today?”

Flauschi“For me, yes. We have seen the island. And we know what we need to find out before visiting.”

Puschel“Then I am taking more than an empty cup home. I am taking a proper question too.”

Flauschi“How to reach it safely. And who can tell us about that.”

When they felt rested, they packed everything again. They took their packaging and belongings with them. Flauschi lifted the boat and Puschel the basket. Together they followed the familiar dry path home, without climbing down to the riverbank.

The wish note still had no sender. The island kept its quiet secrets. But before the next part of their journey, they would ask about a safe entrance. For today, a first glimpse and a shared rest were enough.