Vickie Johnstone 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:
Photo by K.S. Brooks
The Portal
by Vickie Johnstone
With a sense of foreboding, Davis headed inside. Silver light trickled as rain all around him, illuminating the cavern in uncanny detail. As he watched, the ceiling and walls shifted until they were but specks in the distance, leaving an endless space. Had he made the biggest mistake of his life?
“Davis!”
He gulped. Golden rays bounced off the rocky ground and a low hum filled the air, consuming all other sound, and like a song, it rose.
“Why have you come?”
Davis gazed upon the maiden, clad in nothing but her glittering, golden skin. It shone as brightly as her smile. “Did you get lost?” she asked sweetly.
He hesitated. “I s-seek r-refuge.”
“From…?”
“Life.”
Like a rush of ocean waves, the maiden’s laughter filled the cavern. “You cannot hide from life. You know it will only follow.”
“I am old and fear Farmer Jack may send me to the Knacker’s Yard. I’ve heard stories.”
“Davis, you are his dearest horse. You need not fear. I will open the door once and advise you return to the life you have.”
A blanket of pitch fell and the portal blazed open, revealing the green fields of home. Flicking his mane, Davis trotted obediently to the threshold, paused once, and charged forth. Then fear froze his hooves. Up the hill strode three men bearing shotguns. Wide-eyed, Davis detected a gap in the closing portal door and galloped faster than he ever had before, except when he won the 2005 Grand National.
Congratulations, Vickie. When I, first, read your story I really enjoyed how you turned the topic around and made your protagonist a horse. Reading your story again, I still enjoy this angle as well as the note of hope at the end.
Oops, I replied in the wrong place, so thanks again!! My reply is below. Yep, I’m starting how I mean to go on in 2015 by being slightly dopey 🙂
Thanks, Martha. I often start out thinking of writing something serious, but I reckon I’ve only managed it once. It always ends up with something quirky in it. I’m not sure if that’s good or bad! I love animals, so they tend to squeeze their way in. 🙂
I loved the way your story. Making the protagonist a horse was inspired!
Congrats Vickie!
I’m hoping the horse wins this race.
Vickie,
I am only know understanding flash writing. However your writing rocks. The story had intrigue, interest and beckons the reader to learn more. The ultimate component to your story, is the element of surprise. You are an excellent writer! Congratulations Vickie!! Well done!!