Life After Life

I tried to pry my eyes open, but it was too hard. My skin was warm, and it felt like the sun was shining on me hot and strong. Since I couldn't see I tried speaking, managing a soft, "Help," and nothing more. Luckily it was enough for the man above.

"I'll be right down," he called, "try not to move too much." It was no more than a minute before I heard footsteps coming toward me. "It looks like the path really gave out there," he said softly. I felt gentle hands as they drifted across me. Once again I tried to open my eyes.

When I finally pried my eyes open the hands had reached my legs. I was staring up at a bright blue sky, which spun before me like a kaleidescope image. "Ugh," I managed to vocalize as my stomach lurched. I shut my eyes again, but the dizziness continued.

"Easy," he said, "don't make any sudden movements. We have to get you out of here somehow." I tried to shake my head which only made things worse, so I moaned. I still hadn't seen my rescuer.