When I open my eyes, I’m seated on the stone floor only feet away from the pool of water. Da Vinci is seated before me, lotus style, lit candles set out on the floor, the dancing flame creating shadows inside the dim stone chamber. Directly to his right is the circular pool. Mounted to a perch above the master’s head is the hawk that lead me here, his black eyes reflecting the candle’s flame.
My eyes are still wet with tears, my body still trembling. But, I know for certain I am back. Back to the real world, however strange it appears to be inside this cave.
My God, Ava, could it possibly be true that you are still okay? That you, and your mother, are still alive? That you are still just an innocent little girl? That there’s still time to save you? …
My God, Ava, cou
