AL Kaplan Wins Flash Fiction Challenge

AL Kaplan is the readers’ choice in this week’s Indies Unlimited Flash Fiction Challenge.

The winning entry is rewarded with a special feature here today and a place in our collection of winners which will be published as an e-book at year end.

Without further ado, here’s the winning entry:

boston harbor sunset copyright ksbrooks 1997
boston harbor sunset copyright ksbrooks 1997

New World
by AL Kaplan

Sergio Cortinez gripped the steering wheel of the Nuestra Senora with a white-fingered grip. He cast a nervous glance at the dark clouds behind them, wondering if the ship could handle another such storm. Around him, the crew hurried to unfurl sail with unusual silence.

Off to the west, the sky turned crimson with the setting sun. But just as Sergio though things were settling a huge gray bird roared overhead. The gray beast flew in a straight line, not even flapping its wings. Curses erupted around the ship and even non-believers crossed themselves. Only his passenger seemed unconcerned. The strange gentleman checked his pocket watch as he leaned on the railing.

“Kindly follow the flying machine, Captain Cortinez.”

“That’s a machine? Where in heaven’s name did you send us?”

“Fear not, Captain. Boston harbor is due west a few miles away.”

“When you hired me for this voyage, you said we were going to America. You never said anything about going back in time to 1497 Spain.”

“I needed to exchange some items for currency of that period.”

“And how this that supposed to get us gold?”

“Captain Cortinez, We will enter Boston in the year 1997. The money I acquired in 1497 is very valuable. I can sell it and purchase gold or other items of interest.”

“Fine, but that machine of yours better get us back to 1895 alive.”

“I promised you gold and adventure, Captain. I will deliver both.”

“I hope so, Mr. Wells.”

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