It's the 2nd Annual Flash Fiction Blogfest (may21-23) hosted by Cherie Reich to celebrate her third year blogversary. It doubles up as a competition with three winners getting Amazon gift cards. Open voting on may28.
Check out the linky list of other flash writers here.
A piece of flash 300 words or less beginning with the words Lightning Flashed.
A piece of flash 300 words or less beginning with the words Lightning Flashed.
Lightning flashed in the distance. They sans
one huddled closer drawing comfort from each other. The swirling black clouds were
visible indicating that their journey was at its end. Yet, darkness would
arrive before them. The winding road seemingly friendly an hour ago was at its
treacherous best. The trees lining both sides were gnarled in places, hideous
stumps at others, the roots spreading out onto the pathway like greedy fingers.
The leafless branches rustled and bent towards them. This is an illusion.
The shaman’s dying warning echoed. Icy hands trailed through their limbs. Fear,
the warriors accepted, welcomed, but this unseen entity chilled their hearts,
dulled their instincts, made them cower like the villagers they were bound to
protect.
Ashan, the self appointed leader, twirled
his blood stained scimitar. Basher balked at the other’s impatience, then nudged
the unsure group forward. He waited for the one tagging behind. She moved with firm,
alert steps belying her tender age. She had impressed Bashir by offering to be
the bait. The council had happily agreed.
He
had sworn then to protect her with his life.
A flash of light revealed the looming grey
castle. Thunder made its presence felt. Then. Utter silence. They stopped a few
feet away from the gates. Ashan turned to Bashir. “Take the girl and walk
ahead. We follow close behind.”
Why single me out? “Come. It’s time.” in the kindest tone he could manage.
One of the gates unbolted, wide enough for
a person to pass through.
He
stopped her as she moved forward. “I go first.”
The iron door closed behind them. Bashir
rushed back trying in vain to wrench it open.
His reward was bloodied fingers.
Yasmin watched him, the slow hunger now a raging
need. The warrior’s blood smelled sweet. A feast tonight.
Wc 300 Exact.
*Love using Asian characters since they are few and far between beyond our shores.
24 comments:
Oh I love this. And you are so right, Asian characters don't get written about nearly enough in fiction. I've read a few great books with them. One was called the Initiate Brother, and I really liked it.
So is Yasmine a vampire? It sounds like she may be some kind of paranormal entity at the least. I am intrigued!
Now Yasmin will have two meals instead of one.
Very well done, Rek! You paint the most wonderful images with your words.
I like this one a lot.
It's erie, dark and GOOD!
Lightning flashed... and a dark, sinister, intriguing tale unfolded! Well done!
The bit about "unseen entity" has piqued my curiosity...
Very moody and atmospheric. I fear the worst, but I trust that Bashir will slay Yasmin and protect the maiden -- tonight the only feast shall be of roast beast.
There were so many lines I loved in this piece Rek. The description of the trees, the darkness arriving before them, Then. Utter silence. Lovely, and the twists were really interesting. You always create such magical worlds. Keep writing. I'll keep reading.
Very nice imagery. Well done.
Niiiice. I loved the ending :)
Amazingly chilling! I felt like I was there
Loved the ending. Keep writing. :)
Powerful imagery and I fear the worst for our warrior friend, which I usually do. Nice entry! :)
Very well written, Rek:)
Well done! High tension and great imagery.
yikes! great build up and twist! loved it!
Chilling and powerful. As always, your writing is wonderful.
xoRobyn
I also love that the main characters are Asian. I hope things end well for the heroes! :-)
Great surprise at the end!
Some Dark Romantic
Very atmospheric; good stuff :)
You're right too; there aren't many Asian character that are represented in fiction - good to see it here :)
Ooo, great twist for the ending! I really enjoyed this.
I'll announce the finalists tomorrow.
As others have said, very atmospheric. Something about those bloodied fingers at the end really lent to the story a sense of desperation, quite visceral. The last lines were simply the icing on top.
Good One , Rek! Best of luck for the contest!
I love the name 'Yasmin' :-))) And wow, exactly 300 words :-))) Good job Rek!
This was chilling. I especially loved the last lines.
Hi! I've given you the Booker Award. Pop on over to my blog to pick it up. :)
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Glad you made it this far...would love to hear your take on the words scribbled. A comment every now and then keeps the blues away. :D
Since, crazy Mr. Blogspot won't let me reply to the comments here (is upset with the water ladies ever since they refused to verify visitors)...will do the next best thing, drop in to your blog to say my Vanakkam/Namaste/Salaam/Hello.