MftS: The Challenge

Posted on by Louise Bunting

Here’s this week’s entry into Monday’s Finish the Story flash fiction challenge, run by Barbara W. Beacham. This challenge gives you a picture prompt and the first line and asks that you finish the story in 100-150 words. The given line is in italics.

Photo Prompt - © 2015, Barbara W. Beacham
Photo Prompt – © 2015, Barbara W. Beacham

The Challenge
Genre: fantasy

“Where did they go?” Jonin snarled, knuckles white on his sword hilt as his gaze swept the ruins. No sign of his honour guard could be seen.

“Win the challenge and they’ll be returned.”

“That’s not what I asked.”

The strange figure made no reply, merely smiled, displaying an unsettling array of pointed teeth.

“This is ridiculous,” Jonin blustered. “I’m not playing your stupid games. I want you to return my men at once!”

“You trespassed on my land, killed my animals and polluted my home with your human stink. You’re lucky you’re not dead already. One game and, if you win, you’ll be able to continue your journey – with your warriors – in peace.”

“And if I lose?”

The creature grinned. “Then tonight I feast.”

Scowling, Jonin finally accepted the challenge. He’d win the game and leave with his men.

Tomorrow he’d return with his mages and he’d raze this place to the ground.

Word Count: 150

mondays-finish-the-story

To read other entries or to submit your own, click the little blue frog.

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Until a little while ago we’d had no internet in the village since the end of last week so I apologise to anyone whose left a comment I haven’t responded to and for my lack of visits to blogs. I’ve managed to get online a couple of times when out and about working but not enough to get around everyone I’d have liked to. One thing I did check yesterday was the Barbara’s prompt for MftS so this, at least, was all ready to go when the internet finally came back.

I hope you all like it – it’s been a while since I wrote a story with quite so much dialogue.

34 thoughts on “MftS: The Challenge”

    1. Thank you, PJ. Your comment is very flattering. 🙂 I think against his strange opponent magic is his surest means of victory – he just has to win the game and reclaim his men first!

      Liked by 1 person

      3. True! He’s definitely not someone you’d want living nearby – I think he might have a bit of a taste for human flesh. 🙂 Having said that, I’m not sure Jonin is all that pleasant a person either…

        Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you, JA. 🙂 At least his opponent gave Jonin the chance to save his men. Somehow I don’t think Jonin would have done the same – though at least he wouldn’t eat the loser! I’m glad you enjoyed it. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  12. Well done Louise! I like that there is a challenge in this challenge. And, I want to know the outcome. 🙂 Again, well done! Thank you for your contribution to the challenge. You be well… ^..^

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  13. Great one, Louise! I heard no mention of “rules” to this game…so why not a bit of magic…I hope he can pull it off, win, and get his warriors back so they can all leave.

    Liked by 1 person

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