For decades, questions lingered about Ted Hrdlicka—the silver-mining banker who penned novels in his free time. But now? From Heaven itself, he watches with pride as Bowl Top Mountain’s legend thrives after thirty years.
His spirit is among the first to celebrate—joining other souls who believed in this story long before it took root on Earth.
"The heart and love in this story touch every age—from wide-eyed children to weathered grandparents. It’s the kind of magic that lingers, like a campfire tale told under starry skies."
"These tunnels go deep," David whispered, "Papa said they were made by ancient winds."
Suddenly, a distant drip… drip… drip echoed ahead—a underground stream? Or something else?
Once prepped with her glowing harness and rope swing tied securely around her waistline:
Christy clung tight as David released them both upward into darkness above—the shaft rising vertically toward their home.
Glowstones flickered past them like fireflies guiding lost souls homeward.
At one point: A sudden gust nearly sent Christy spinning—but he reeled her back in fast!
Finally…
They breached open air at last! Skyland’s door loomed before them under moonlight spilling over cliffsides below...
And there it was: Their paradise awaiting.
Author Jack W. Horn 8/28/2026 5:04 PM