Questions at the swamp’s edge
The Gnome Files.
A closed cabinet, a few questions, and room for what we have yet to learn.
The first case
FILE 0001 · RESEARCH IN PROGRESSGnomes
When did somebody’s description become everybody’s gnome?
We’re checking the sources. The research case is not open yet.
From the Walkabout stories
These are story notes from our fictional world, separate from the historical research above.
WALKABOUT STORY NOTEThe size of a gnome
Gnomes can change their size. A small glimpse doesn’t tell you how large—or how small—Mikey will be when you look again. This is particularly inconvenient for Biff’s crates.
Follow this threadWALKABOUT STORY NOTEThe Night Watchman
Rumpy’s purpose begins after sunset. To protect the woods, he has to notice what is happening in them. Listening takes practice.
Follow this threadWALKABOUT STORY NOTEA note finds its way
Hope writes the notes and sends them in bottles. Their destination is the person who needs them, including friends far from the land. The water keeps the deeper explanation.
Follow this threadWALKABOUT STORY NOTEThe map is still growing
Atlas records what he sees. A map can hold a path without answering every question about where it leads.
Follow this threadWALKABOUT STORY NOTEThe Gnome Catcher
Biff keeps changing the size of the crate. Mikey keeps changing the size of Mikey. The bait has a habit of disappearing.
Follow this threadWALKABOUT STORY NOTEA boat called Bog Bouncer
Its leaf sail belongs to a small adventure on the water. Its name is Bog Bouncer. Follow it downstream.
Follow this threadAt the swamp’s edge.
Moss, mushrooms, and a cabinet keeping its questions close.
