Learning to Love Time Loops Without Going Insane

“So what exactly am I supposed to do here Ralth?” Ethel asked the man looming over her. He was by far the tallest person she had ever met, and she had met some giants in her life.

“You have to find a way to make contact with the spirit inside yourself. It’s different for everyone. It took Cal years. One of the biggest problems you are likely to face is that yours is tied to nature and doing this outside would be extremely dangerous. The capybaras and I have done our best to create this conservatory here in the void to give you the best chance at it.”

“And I really appreciate that, there are many beautiful plants here. Will they all disappear when the loop resets?”

“I don’t believe so, no, we germinated every single plant here, in hopes to make it a native of the pocket dimension. I believe they will continue to thrive within this room. The real question will be, is if our solar array and batteries will last long enough to get them charging again on the next loop. But Andy is confident they will. I’m going to leave you now, I wish you luck.”

“Thank you.” Ethel shook the man’s hand firmly before he left. It was time to make a friend, now matter how long it took.

Ethel realized after years of this that she had severely underestimated how long it would take. She just assumed Cal had slacked off through most of it. “God damn tree, why can’t you be more helpful, I can feel the spirit inside of me. Why don’t you tell it to get out here?!”

“Fine, I will help.” A deep rumbling voice echoed from the tree startling Ethel. She hadn’t awakened it, what was happening? Before she had a chance to move away a branch lifted her off the ground and placed her in its canopy.

“Hi Ethel, sorry it took so long for me to talk, you’ve held me so deep inside for so long I needed the help of Mr. Oak here to really pull me out.” Ethel saw a small leaf life figure talking to her.

“It’s okay little one, I’m sorry I got angry. Do you know what we do next?”

“Yes, this is going to hurt a little, but I need to start the process of opening and purifying your core. I should have it done in a few years.”

“Ahh, yes Cal mentioned this, just let me get comfortable.” Ethel found a surprisingly cozy pile of leaves. “I’m ready.”