Random Creative Writings

Flash Fiction

Our assignment was to write stories within certain parameters. We had to write within a certain word limit and incorporate 3/10 words chosen.

700-1000 words 
Words Used: Parsley, City, Rabbit
*This won't make much sense because it's part of a larger story, but this is the most action-filled part I've written out of the 30 pages, so I thought I'd use it for the assignment*

They reached the opening of the cave just in time to see the leader of the squad—Heron—run her dad clean through with a sword. An ear-piercing shriek broke the stillness of the air, and it took her a few moments to realize it was her own. Amongst the chaos of everyone charging out the opening, Nare grabbed her arm and pulled her back. She fought as hard as she could, but Paxton used his larger body to wrestle her into calm. There was no way she'd accomplish anything in this state. It was one of the first lessons Don had ever taught her.

The three of them were crowded into an alcove as the dragons let loose the fire from their jaws. The scent of burnt hair and charred flesh rose up, causing them all to gag. Anyone who wasn't grilled was killed with brutal efficiency by the riders. They had no hope. But even as they all fell, there was no regret in their eyes. They did what they could and lived the life they wanted.

Tears streaming down all of their faces, the adrenaline didn't let any of them stop for even a moment. Jaye, Paxton, and Nare began to sneak out the side while the rest of the riders were busy. Unable to stop herself, Jaye raced to Don's side. He was breathing, barely.

"Dad, dad please."

"Don, we're here. You're not alone, we're here for you. Don't leave us," Paxton dropped to his knees. His husband opened his eyes just a sliver.

"I'm so proud of both of you," his eyelids fluttered with the attempt to stay awake, "Stay safe. Survive... and Jaye?"

"Yes?" she couldn't see his face through the salt in her eyes, the coldness of his skin, and the shards of her heart.

"Change the world, kiddo."

His hand dropped, and he was gone.

"Argh!" Paxton groaned out, an arrow protruding from his shoulder. Nare's ears pricked towards the source of the noise.

"Go now!" she shouted as another arrow whizzed by, just narrowly missing Jaye. With one last forlorn look at the man who'd raised her, Jaye ran. He told her to survive and it was the least she could do.

"Jaye! Nare!" a familiar voice called from farther in the trees. Henri. He'd gotten out. They all veered towards the voice, but Paxton began to lag behind. Don and the wound in his shoulder had taken its toll already. He was losing hope.

"Hey, Papa, sit here." Jaye leaned him against a tree, "You should be safe for a few minutes, we'll be back. Don't fall asleep."

He nodded, "I'll wait for you."

"Guys, over here," the voice was whispered now and they slowed to a walk.

"Henri?" Nare called, leading the way. It was a blessing and a curse that she did because the second she stepped into the clearing, there was a throwing knife lodged directly in the middle of her chest. She fell backwards.

"Nare!" Jaye shrieked. Hands fluttering, she lay her best friend down gently.

"Oh, I missed," Henri replied, nonchalant.

"You!" she growled, fury faltering, "You?"

"Yes, me," he said with an air of satisfaction, "I suppose introductions are in order."