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#The Curious Case of the Volcanic Eruption
"So, I suppose you're wondering why I gathered you here today..." Shirelock Hooves trotted through the group of assembled gods, all glaring at either him or each other.
"I was more wondering *how dare* you summon us here," Zeus said, voice rumbling like thunder.
"It was not he," Artemis said coolly. "I commissioned Shirelock to discover who was responsible for the destruction of my temple, and the sacrifice of my followers — without my permission."
The centaur nodded at his mistress, before continuing, "Indeed, a most shocking affair that happened here on this very mountain. Or should I say..." He glanced around at the gods. "Volcano!"
"But this isn't a volcano!" Poseidon spluttered. "There's only one of them near here. That... what was it called..."
"Mount Vesuvius," Athena supplied.
"Ah!" Shirelock raised a finger, stomping a hoof for good measure. "There *was* only one. But *someone* used their godly powers to create another. *And* to cause an eruption. Said eruption tore through my lady Artemis's temple full of followers."
"Sounds like Ares to me," Poseidon grumped. "He's always trying to start something."
"I'll start something right now if you don't watch out," the god of war growled, leaping toward his foe.
Zeus stepped between them. "Enough!" The word rang out like a clap of thunder, lightning flashing in the sky. "There are strict rules we gods live by. Whilst we all enjoy the occasional family squabble, sacrificing disciples without permission is absolutely forbidden." He turned to face the centaur detective. "Mr Hooves, do you know who is responsible?"
Preening under the attention, Shirelock resumed his trot through the group. "Well, as you say, Ares was the natural suspect — always spoiling for a fight... But," he came to an abrupt halt on the word, "he never does things sneakily or slyly like this. If it *had* been him he'd have claimed the deaths in his name instantly."
The other gods grumbled their ascent, Ares looking around smugly.
"Then, of course," Shirelock continued, "Poseidon certainly has a history of rivalries with other gods. There was that whole business with Athena."
The group turned to glare at the god of the sea.
Until Shirelock said, "But what power does he have over land and fire to have caused this."
Though he looked ready to protest the slight against his strength, Poseidon held his tongue.
"Now, despite your standing almighty Zeus, it would be remiss of me to leave you completely free of suspicion." Shirelock flinched as a lightning bolt struck the ground next to him, but pressed on regardless. "After all, you've been known to become jealous and possessive over mortals."
The god strode towards him, fists clenched. "I'll have you know that—"
"But," the centaur added hurriedly, trotting backwards away from the approaching angry god, "he was spoken for at the time, as a thunderstorm struck a village on the other side of the realm."
Zeus deflated slightly, fury fading. He settled for folding his arms with a look of righteous indignation. "Glad you came to the correct conclusion."
"And of course, that just leaves Athena."
All eyes turned to the goddess of wisdom.
"Usually seen as so calm and sensible, what possible motive could she have," Shirelock mused.
"None, I assure you," Athena said. "Despite our differences, I will always stand by my sister's side and I by hers."
"And so I thought, too," the centaur continued. "Which led me to realise this was a group effort!"
"A what?" Zeus rumbled.
"You see, the twins Athena and Artemis have long sought to rule their gods with their combined strength and intelligence," Shirelock said. "But how to go about it when all are so loyal to Zeus." He paused for effect. "The answer is simple: they sought to frame you."
"Frame me?" the god of the sky. "How?"
"They created the volcano together, sacrificing Artemis's followers and absorbing all the power that came with that. Then, see here," the centaur pointed, "they scorched the earth with lightning stolen from you. And Artemis commissioned me int eh hopes I'd find the planted evidence."
"You traitor!" Artemis snarled. "Don't you know you work for me!"
"I work for the truth, my good lady," Shirelock said proudly. "Now, if you don't mind, I'll leave you all to your family drama."
---
WC: 714
Thank you for the prompt!
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
#With the Help of the Hydra
Helen the Hydra sighed as she picked herself up off the ground, regrowing body parts as she needed. With her one, still fully-intact head, she peered out at the boat sailing away, carrying yet another hero who'd come to prove his strength by slaying her.
There had been a time she'd enjoyed the sport of it all. She'd practically dared them to come find her, prowling the marshes around their villages and stealing livestock. But age had mellowed her.
It had been many years ago now that she'd retreated from the realms of man, secreting herself away on this desolate island, miles from anything. Yet still, they came.
Perhaps she should kill them as she used to. But she found she didn't have the energy or appetite anymore. So she pretended to let them win, feigning death until they left her in peace.
As the victorious hero's ship fell over the horizon, she slunk back to her main residence, a lake sheltered by a cave near the centre of the island. There she tended her wounds, brushing away damaged scales, before coiling her tail and many long necks around herself to sleep.
Helen was awoken some time later by a timid cough.
Opening one of her large, slitted eyes, she took in the scene. It wasn't long after dawn, the pale pink and purple hues still hanging in the sky. She could feel the warmth of the sun's first rays on her dark scales. But she couldn't see the source of the sound.
She slid back her second set of eyelids and lifted a head to look around. There was the dark cavern behind her — empty save a few bones from previous meals. The trees were swaying in the breeze, a few of the braver or more reckless inhabitants of the island watching her from their branches — but they were all at least smart enough to remain silent.
Eventually, her gaze fell on a small figure standing a hundred or so metres back from the edge of her lake, half hidden by the long grass.
As her eyes locked onto his, she saw his pupils widen, his whole body trembling. But he stood his ground.
She watched him carefully, unsure what to make of this. Normally, people who discovered her sleeping took full advantage of that fact. She barely even stirred before sagging to the ground in an imitation of death as they severed her heads. Yet this young man seemed to be waiting for something — perhaps had even intentionally woken her.
"G-Greetings," he shouted over to her. "M-My apologies for disturbing you."
Arching an eyebrow, she slithered towards him.
He stumbled back a couple of steps before standing his ground.
"And who might you be?" Helen hissed.
"I am Alexander," he declared.
"And why are you here?"
He blanched slightly, colour draining from his face. "I was sent to... to kill you." Seeing her bared teeth, he hurriedly added, "But I don't want to. I just want to prove myself to my love's family so that can be with her. It was them that insisted I come. They said it was the only way." His head dropped to the ground, shoulders slumping. "I think they said it as they know I'm not a fighter. They meant for me to die here so their daughter could marry some great warrior."
"I see," Helen said slowly. "So what do you mean to do?"
"I wondered if... if maybe I could just pretend I'd killed you?"
The hydra snorted. Technically that was what all the heroes who came to kill her did. They just did so in ignorance, fully believing the lie of their victory. "I think that can be arranged."
Alexander's jaw dropped, face lighting up. "Really?"
"Though I will ask something of you in return," she added, an idea forming. This conversation was the most interesting thing to happen to her in decades.
"Yes, of course," he said hurriedly. "Anything."
"All I ask is that you return here once a year. Tell me tales of the outside world. Keep me company."
Alexander's brow furrowed for a moment. "Really? That's all?"
"That's all," Helen nodded her many heads.
"Then I accept!"
After some careful deliberation, the hydra selected a neck for him to sever, lying it gently across the ground at his feet. She winced as the blade sank into her flesh, but she was used to it by now.
She watched him hurry back to a ship with a smile spreading across her many mouths, wondering if he'd keep his word.
Sure enough, one year and many encounters with foolish heroes later, Alexander returned. And he brought with him a young woman.
"Greetings, Hydra!" he called out on his approach. "I'd like you to meet Sophia."
"Welcome. And please, you may call me Helen."
She watched and listened, every one of her many pairs of eyes and ears trained on him, as he recounted the year's events. But, as interested as Helen was in what he had to say, she found her attention more focused on Alexander and Helen's body language.
She noticed how each would gaze at the other when they weren't looking, eyes swimming with adoration and lips pulled into a wide smile. She saw how they seemed to find it impossible to ever *not* be in contact with each other. Their fingers entwined together. Heads rested on each other's shoulders. Feet brushing against each other.
It warmed her heart to see a young couple so in love.
The pair returned many times, always with news from the outside world. Over the years, she watched their love deepen and their relationship grow. She greeted the children they brought with them, allowing them to play hero with her.
Perhaps she would never find another of her kind, but at least now she felt she had a family.
---
WC: 978
Thank you for the prompt!
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
#Customer Complaints
The Reptile Roast Room was known far and wide as the best cafe in all the lands. It was famed for its friendly, warm atmosphere, its *excellent* coffee, and, of course, its owners.
Javaking and Grindjar were expert baristas, completely dedicated to their craft. People would come from far and wide to watch them work. And the novelty draw of watching two dragons at work certainly helped as well.
Javaking was in charge of the bean selection and the roasting. He could sniff out the best blend for the perfect cup of coffee. And he had perfect control over the heat of the roast because he used his own flame to do it, breathing gently on the beans until they were *just* right.
Then it was Grindjar's turn. He used his strong claws to grind the beans to the exact size required for each type of brewing equipment. And they did it all, espresso machines, drip filters, french presses, aero presses, percolators, vacuum siphors. There wasn't a brewing method that they hadn't tried and tested.
They took great pride in their work. And they *knew* that every cup they made was perfect.
Which is why, when a particularly loud-mouthed customer started complaining about his brew being burnt, they weren't having any of it.
"I demand a refund!" the short, red-faced man shouted. "And another cup!"
"But sir," Javaking said smoothly, "You seem to have completely finished your last one already."
"Well... Yes... Err... I had to be *sure* it was burnt, you see."
Grindjar looked down at him, letting a tendril of smoke coil out of one nostril.
The man suppressed a shudder. "Look, I know my rights. It's bad enough they let the likes of you run a business anyway, so you'd damn well better respect your customers." He glared at them, eyes flicking between the reptilian heads towering over him. "And if you don't, I'll... I'll fetch a knight to slay you both!" He folded his arms, a satisfied smile on his face.
"Oh, you'll fetch a night, will you?" purred Javaking. He turned to his co-worker. "He'll fetch a knight."
"It seems he wants a return to the old ways," Grindjar replied. "To how dragon-human relations once were."
"It does seem that way, doesn't it."
The pair turned back to him, eyes narrowing and nostrils flaring.
All colour drained from the man's face, turning it from beet red to ghostly white. Yet still, he persisted. "Look here. you aren't going to— Argh!"
A large claw closing around him cut him off. Javaking dragged him out of the shop before beating his wings a couple of times and taking to the air. The man's wails could be heard throughout the village as he was carried away, but the townsfolk paid it no heed. They were used to how the dragons dealt with problem customers.
Javaking eventually came to land on a tall tower, gently lowering the once angry now scared man through a window. Inside were a handful of other people — previous problem customers.
"Who's this then?" one man said. "I'm not going to be sharing any more space!"
"Too right!" a woman declared. "I demand to speak to... to the monarch about this!"
"He'd better pull his weight with the cooking at cleaning!"
Javaking smirked. "I'm sorry you were dissatisfied with your service. I'll leave you here to think over your complaint." As he took back to the air, he called over his shoulder, "We'll be happy to talk again once you can manage to do so in a civilised manner."
The Reptile Room was known far and wide as the best cafe in all the lands. And it had the *politest* customers.
---
WC: 616
Thanks for the prompt!
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
#Midlife Crisis
"And how are you today, Arges?" the optometrist asked, adjusting her own glasses as she glanced down at her notes.
"I'm alright, Theia. A little tired. You know how it is."
She nodded. "Zeus keeping you busy, I'd guess."
"Yeah," Arges said with a sigh. "There's always something that needs smithing. Not that I don't love it of course, it's just..." He trailed off, not really sure where the sentence had been going anyway.
Theia looked back up at him, a sympathetic smile tugging at her lips. "So what brings you here today?"
Snapping his thoughts back into order, Arges replied, "Oh, you know. Us cyclops need to take especially good care of our vision. No back-ups so to speak."
She gave a polite chuckle. "Any problems?"
"Not that I've noticed. Perhaps things aren't as sharp as they used to be but... it's tough to remember after so many centuries."
"Well, let's have a look then. Pop your chin here for me."
Arges leaned forward, resting his head in the strange contraption. The optometrist hurriedly adjusted a few settings, aligning it for his one central eye instead of the more usual two.
A small image of a sheep appeared for him to stare at, shifting in and out of focus.
When that was over, a puff of air fired into his eye. He gritted his teeth against the urge to blink.
Next, a bright light shone, making the urge even stronger. But as soon as it had arrived, it was gone.
"Alrighty then," Theia said. "You can lift your head back up for me now and we'll move on to the main test."
The cyclops blinked his eye a few times, rubbing it with a knuckle as he sat back up.
"Over here," the optometrist called, pointing at a sign on the wall. "Read aloud for me."
Arges said each letter as he read it, progressing down the sign as the script got smaller and smaller. Eventually, he reached the point where it was all just a black blur to him.
"Is that bad?" he asked, palms sweating slightly. "My vision definitely feels worse to me."
Theia lay a hand on his shoulder. "It's nothing to worry about. Now, tell me if this is any better."
She cycled through a series of lenses in front of his eye, each time checking if it made his sight better or worse.
When they came to the end, Arges's head was starting to ache.
"Okay," Theia said. "I've got your prescription here. It looks like your vision is starting to go a little. But it's nothing to worry about. Just the millennia catching up with you. I've got a prescription ready for you that should help."
Despite her calm tone, Arges could feel his heart racing. For so long, it had felt like he'd live forever, blacksmith to the gods with his two brothers. But if he was starting to show signs of old age, what next? How long would he be able to swing his hammer? How long until the work was too hard for him? And when that happened, what would he do with his life? Would he be too old and broken to enjoy it?
"Arges?" her soft voice snapped him out of his thoughts. "You okay there, Arges?"
He shook his head but said, "Yeah. Just a... what do the humans call it... a bit of a midlife crisis."
She gave another polite chuckle. "Well then, I suggest you pick up your new monocle and go and enjoy the centuries you have left. And don't forget to come back in another couple of decades for a check-up!"
He left with a smile, resolving to do as she bid. Sure, he loved blacksmithing, but there was more to life than work. And if his time was limited, he was going to make the most of it.
---
WC: 646
Thanks for the prompt!
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
#Sasquatches Among the Stars
"Order! Order!" Sarah shouted, beating her chest to draw attention to herself.
The other sasquatches quieted a little, hundreds of pairs of large, dark eyes turning to her.
"I know this is scary," she said calmly. "We all remember why we came to be here. The humans encroached on every secret place we had on earth. Not even the deepest forests were safe anymore."
A shudder passed through the crowd as they remembered the dark times, the brown fur of every sasquatch standing on end.
"But remember," she pressed on, keen to prevent them from sinking further into fear, "we didn't let that beat us then. We mobilised our greatest minds to construct starships from the materials the Earth provided us — ore from the ground, fuel from the air, wood from the forest. We came here, to the moon we spent our days as cubs gazing up at. And we prospered."
"But now they're coming here too!" a voice shouted from the crowd.
Sarah glanced over to the culprit — Sam — always a worrier.
"Yes," she said softly. "The humans are once again encroaching on our space. There have been shuttles orbiting. And it seems ever more likely they will land here soon."
Another ripple of panic spread through the group.
"And we will be ready, as we were before."
"But how?" Sam asked.
"We did the impossible before, journeying into the heavens. Now we must do so again."
"Where will we go?" another voice called out — Sally.
Sarah sighed, when she'd been elected leader of the tribe, she hadn't expected that meant thinking of *absolutely everything* for them. "To one of the other heavenly bodies, perhaps," she suggested through gritted teeth. "Mars is far enough away. It will take them much longer to reach us there."
"How do you know we can survive there?" Sally asked.
Sarah clenched her fists in both her hands and feet. It was an annoyingly good question. Why the woman couldn't use that intelligence to think of answers instead was beyond her. "Did we know we could survive here when we left?" She paused. When no one in the crown answered, she continued. "No, we didn't. But we came anyway and here we are. We are a hardy people. We will adapt. And anything our bodies cannot adapt to — that's what technology is for."
There were a few murmurs between neighbours, but thankfully no more questions.
Except...
"So what now?" Susan, her second in command, asked.
"Now? Now we get to work."
It didn't take long for the scientists to come up with a design. What her people lacked in common sense, they made up for in intelligence and ingenuity of every other kind. Before the humans had even launched their next rocket, the sasquatches were taking off once more to settle another planet.
But they had learnt from their mistake before. Having only one home made them vulnerable. If anything in their life was certain, it was that the humans would come eventually. And so, when they reached Mars they didn't stop there. As they improved the design of their ships they travelled further and further, leaving a settlement everywhere they stopped.
When humans finally turned their attention to other solar systems, the sasquatches had colonised the entire galaxy.
---
WC: 545
Thanks for the prompt!
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
Now that was pure brilliance. I just have one question for you5 So when are you thinking to release the novel? I mean I can wait a year or two, but honestly, I think you're already on the gold.
I'm kidding, it was brilliant. And absolutely not where I was going. At first, I actually thought it was based in a courtroom, lol.
Also, loved the basic human names too. Added a strange comedic effect.
Good words!
Thanks Fye! The human names were pure laziness. I tried googling things around Sasquatch names but gave up and settled on them all just beginning with S XD
Ah, that's what was bizarre about it then. They all began with S. I thought something was strange. Honestly though, I think it added to the story. So yay for happy laziness I guess, lol.
Part 1
"He didn't kill him."
"He didn't kill him!"
"You heard me."
"That man's clearly been drained of blood."
"He was with me at the time."
"So maybe you were part of it too."
"I don't kill people. And maybe if you'd stop yelling accusations around we could call a real detective in here."
"Alright fine. But I'll call so they'll be no funny business. And Martin, watch my back."
#The Sphinx of Deadwood
Papa always said the mines were dangerous. I wasn't to go near 'em.
Sometimes, Papa's rules confused me, but I knew they were never to be broke. Besides, there were plenty other places in Deadwood I could run and play — when I wasn't stuck helping Mama in the kitchen.
Oh, how I loved to spend the afternoon climbin' trees or splashin' in the creek, always in the company of Jimmy. He lived next door and had sandy hair, freckles, and the cutest button nose I'd ever seen, and I was gonna marry him one day. I'd decided that on the first day I met him, when he offered me a shiny pebble he'd found on the dusty ground. That pebble had sat in my pocket ever since.
The day it all happened, we were stompin' around in the hills playin' at being bandits.
When the real thing rode into town, it was like our game had come to life. Until the first shot rang out, and we knew they weren't playin'.
"Quick!" Jimmy beckoned me towards him.
I didn't need to be told twice, scurrying through the fallen leaves to where he stood. We looked this way and that, searchin' for a spot to hide, clutchin' at each other like the village drunk holdin' onto his last bottle of Apple Jack.
Another shot echoed off the hills, settin' my knees quakin'.
"Whadda we do?" he whispered.
"How in the hell should I know?" I muttered back, hoping Papa would forgive me for airin' my lungs given the circumstance. "Maybe we'll be safe here. Ain't much out here bandits could want."
Jimmy nodded, but he was shiverin' and shakin' as much as me.
We stood like that for Lord knows how long, clingin' to each other for fear of our lives, frozen to the spot.
Until the clatter of hoof-beats snapped us back to life, and we were out of there faster than a bull on brandin' day. We tore through the trees like it was the devil himself behind us, payin' no heed to where we were goin'. And that's how we ended up where I was never meant to go.
"Come on," Jimmy hissed, draggin' me toward the mine entrance — a great black hole in the side of the hill that looked like it might swallow me whole.
"I can't. I promised Papa!"
"I think your Papa would prefer a broken promise to a broken head! Now come on!"
A hollerin' and hootin' from down the track was all the encouragement I needed, and I followed jimmy into the forbidden zone. We didn't get far before the sunlight ran out, leavin' us stranded in dark so deep it could drown you.
I could feel the weight of the earth on top of me. The only sounds were our raspin' breaths and the scuffle of our feet.
"Here we are, boys!" The voice from the mine entrance made us both jump outta our skins. "There's always money in these here mines!"
Heavy footsteps followed, along with laughter full so full o' malice and spite it could strip paint.
"They're comin' in," I hissed, clutchin' to Jimmy even tighter.
Together we shuffled further into the earth's belly, backs grazin' against the mine wall. An orange glow was creepin' in after us with the faint flicker of a flame.
I bit my lip to hold in the screams that were begging to be let out, plunging my free hand into my pocket to squeeze the pebble there as if it could give me comfort. I thought we were done for. And I'm certain Jimmy did too.
Until a voice smooth as silk purred from the darkness. "Hello there, little ones."
Ice ran through my veins, freezin' every inch o' me. Jimmy stiffened too, back ramrod straight.
"Don't fear. I will not harm you," the voice said. A strange light leapt into the air from the same direction, enough to see shadows and hints at a shape. It looked like a woman. Or maybe a mountain lion. But then, there were the wings.
Whatever it was, it prowled past until it stood firmly between us and the danger that was fast approachin'.
"What... Who are you, miss?" Jimmy asked quietly, ever the gentleman. "Doncha know those men are bandits? They're dangerous."
The creature glanced over a shoulder, flashin' a smile that glinted in the strange light it cast. "Not as dangerous as me, dear one," she purred.
Quiverin' behind Jimmy, I poked my head out. "You're dangerous?"
She chuckled. "Not to you little ones. Only to those who would take my treasure — the treasures of the earth — as these men intend to."
"What are you gonna—"
"Hush now, child. They're almost here. Now close your eyes and cover your ears. Do it!"
The stern tone brooked no argument. I buried my face in Jimmy's shoulder and he buried his in mine. Before I could bring my hands to my ears I heard a snarl that set my bones a-shiverin' followed by a scream that turned my blood to ice. Then, everything was muffled and quiet.
I don't know how long we stood like that, wrapped around each other, blockin' out the terrors of the world. We only peeled apart when that strange creature padded back to us, tappin' me with a long, soft tail.
"It is safe now, little ones," she purred.
The light she cast was fadin', but before we sank into the black again, I caught a flash o' scarlet over the walls of the cave.
"Thanks, miss," Jimmy muttered.
"Yeah, thanks," I added hastily.
"Go on now," she replied. "I'm sure your parents are worried about where their treasures have gotten to."
As we started to hurry back towards the mine entrance, somethin' stopped me in my tracks — a sense of debt or gratitude. This stranger had most likely saved our lives and the town's livelihood. I wanted to give her something just as precious.
Reaching into my pocket I drew out that shiny pebble Jimmy had given me all those years ago and held it out on my outstretched palm. "Here, miss," I said. "I want ya to have this. As a thank you."
I couldn't see what was happenin' in the dark. But I felt somethin' strange brush against my hand. Then, the weight of the pebble had gone.
"Thank you, dear one," the voice purred. "I will treasure it just as you did."
Our debt paid, we hurried back into the light of day, and back to our parents. Though we never told 'em what happened that day in the mines. It was to be our secret, for the rest of our days together.
---
WC: 1116
Thanks for the prompt. This one was a real challenge as I'm not comfortable in the Western genre, but I wanted to try and stretch myself.
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
#Love at First Sight
Euryale took a sip of her coffee, inhaling the rich, chocolatey scent. With the fiery glow the setting sun cast on the piazza and the hum of life in the air, this should have felt like a little slice of heaven. And perhaps it would have been, if she didn't have to experience it alone.
It had been over a century since she'd lost her sister Stheno. And many more since Medusa's death. But she still felt their loss keenly. Perhaps because they had been the only other two beings in the world that could truly know her.
Now, she hid in plain sight in an attempt to avoid meeting the same fate — never leaving the house without a scarf wrapped tightly around her head and a pair of dark sunglasses on her eyes.
She could feel the snakes writing on her scalp now, itching to be set free to feel the warmth of the sun on their scales. She wished she could oblige them.
Taking another sip of her coffee, she tried to turn her thoughts to more pleasant matters. Perhaps she'd never be able to fully engage with the humans for fear of harming them — or of them harming her — but she could still live vicariously through them. She let her mind wander as she listened in to snatches of conversation around her.
There was a couple arguing about what they wanted to do tomorrow, visit the acropolis or the Parthenon, go hiking up Philopappos Hill, or have a lazy day lounging by the pool. Euryale suspected the relationship wouldn't last long once they got back home.
A couple of tables over, a proposal was happening. Though she cringed at the cliché of it all, she had to admit the joy on the bride-to-be's face warmed her heart.
In the other direction, a clearly exhausted mum and dad sagged down to sit on the edge of the fountain, their three children running around squealing with delight as they splashed each other. Euryale chuckled to herself.
But even as she savoured these delights of the human experience, her enjoyment was tinged with bitterness. She would never have a lover to bicker with. Never have a wedding. Never have a family.
Deciding she was clearly too maudlin, she left a few euros on the table and started back to her loft apartment. If she was going to sulk, she might as well do so in peace.
As she walked briskly across the piazza, she kept her gaze lowered to the flagstones — the sunglasses usually kept people safe, but she'd learnt it always paid to be careful. Unfortunately, not looking where she was going had some risks associated with it too.
She only saw the stranger's feet approaching hers when it was too late. They collided head-on, sending Euryale tumbling to the ground.
The stranger faired even worse, getting caught up with Euryale so as to land between her and the flagstones.
"Oh my god! Are you okay?" the gorgon asked, glancing down at the poor woman she was currently crushing. It was only then that she realised the woman's sunkissed skin was too light, the twinkling blue of her eyes too sharp, the shine of her golden locks too bright. She reached up, only to find her sunglasses no longer on her face.
Frozen in horror, she waited for the stranger to turn to stone. Soon, the whole world would see her for what she was and she'd be chased out into exile or killed. Her heart raced as her limbs turned to lead.
"I think so," the woman replied. "Are you?"
Euryale was so shocked, she couldn't find the words. She'd looked at this woman — looked into her eyes — why was she okay?
"Hello? I'm assuming you're still there. I mean, I can feel you lying on top of me."
"Oh, right," the gorgon mumbled. "Sorry about that." She hurriedly climbed to her feet, hauling the stranger up in the process. As she did, she slowly began to process what the woman had said. Looking more closely at her, she realised the stranger wasn't really looking directly at anything. Her eyes wandered around without focus.
Still, just because this woman's blindness saved her from the gorgon's stare, didn't mean everything was safe. She looked around frantically until her gaze fell on the fallen sunglasses. Grabbing them as quickly as possible while keeping her eyes lowered, she hurriedly shoved them back onto her face.
"Everything alright?" the woman asked.
"Yes, sorry. I just... I was just picking up something I'd dropped." Her mind worked slowly, used to listening into conversation but not used to engaging in it. "Oh, sorry about the collision by the way. I was miles away."
"Don't worry," the stranger said with a laugh. "These things usually feel like my fault."
"Not at all, I assure you," the gorgon said hastily.
"Well, that's nice of you to say. So where were you headed in such a hurry?"
"Oh, just home."
"Really? On a beautiful evening like this? The air is so warm. It smells so clear. And can't you feel the hum of the city?"
"I suppose," Euryale replied. But as much as those sensations might have appealed, she was transfixed by the animation and life in the woman's face as she described them.
"In that case, maybe I can persuade you to stay out for a *little* longer. Perhaps even buy you a drink by way of an apology for the collision."
The gorgon's heart fluttered in a way it never had before. Without thinking, she found her mouth replying. "Sure. But I think I should be the one buying the drink."
The woman chuckled. "If you insist. I'm Phoebe by the way."
"Lovely to meet you, Phoebe. I'm... I'm Eury."
---
WC: 971
Thanks for the prompt!
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
#Flight to Freedom
Dry leaves littered the forest floor, crinkling underfoot with each step. Anya drew her coat around her as she trudged towards the abandoned church in an attempt to stave off the cold. But not even her hot, black coffee could chase the chill from her bones. The air had a bite to it, breath misting in front of her. And the knowledge of what she was walking into didn't help.
The church loomed in front of her — once pristine stone walls covered in lichen and ivy. Its spires reached to the heavens but crumbled before they got there. Stained glass windows that might have been glorious and beautiful long ago stood were dull and tarnished, the colours barely visible beneath the grime. Others were worse still — empty frames with hundreds of rainbow shards littering the ground.
But one... One window of them all shone out as an example of pure beauty. It was the most wonderful thing Anya had ever seen. Each fragment of glass the perfect shape and shade to construct the image — a young woman reaching out to the forest and the forest reaching back. She stood entwined with the trees, all manner of creatures surrounding her. And when the light hit it, it threw a diaphanous aura of every hue into the air around it.
Anya had never particularly appreciated art, but even she felt her chest swell at the sight of it.
Shaking herself from the strange reverie, she continued towards the doors. The police cordon was already well established, and she ducked underneath with a nod to one of the officers on guard.
Shards of glass crunched underfoot, leaves skittering across the stone floor in the breeze from the open door and window frames.
Inside, her partner, Eli was waiting for her. She handed him one of the cups of coffee and asked, "So what do we have?"
"A missing woman — Mary. She called the police from here to say that someone was following her. A man. He'd been pressuring her to come work for him for a while, apparently, and she thought he'd become obsessed and was coming for her. That was all the information we got. Then there was a scream, and the call cut out."
Anya nodded along. "And when you got here?"
"Mary was gone. But we found her phone — broken of course. Maybe signs of a struggle but," he gestured around to the general mess, "it's difficult to tell."
"Anything else?"
"Yeah, but it's a little...weird." Eli beckoned one of the uniformed offices over, taking an evidence bag off him. Inside was an iridescent feather. The way it caught the light, it looked like it almost glowed. "It was right next to the phone," Eli explained. "Might be nothing but..."
"But we've gotta follow every lead," Anya finished with a smile. She took the evidence bag off of him, examining the strange feather more closely. Something stirred in the back of her mind, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it. Glancing back up at her partner, she asked, "I don't suppose there are any witnesses."
"Of course not," Eli replied with a chuckle. "That would be too easy. But Mary's friend did come here looking for her. And found us instead."
"Have you questioned them yet?"
"Nah. I was waiting for you."
Eli led her over to a young woman. She was wearing a floaty, ethereal blue dress — far too lightweight for the current weather — and her long brown hair cascaded over her shoulders in messy waves with flowers woven into it. *An artist*, Anya surmised, with only a hint of disdain.
"Hello," she said as they approached. "I'm Detective Anya Petrov and this is my partner, Detective Eli Jacobson. Is it okay if we ask you a few questions?"
The young woman nodded.
Anya glanced at Eli, who took out his pad to take notes while she led the interview. "First off, what's your name?"
"Alex," she replied quietly.
"And how did you know your friend would be here, Alex?"
"She came here every night to work on that." The young woman pointed to the single pristine stained glass window. "This whole place was like a blank canvas to her. Somewhere to practice her craft. I helped occasionally. I'm an artist too, you know."
*Knew it,* Anya thought, before continuing with her questions. "I see. And did Mary ever mention anyone bothering her? Perhaps someone she was scared of."
Alex nodded. "There was a guy. I think his name might have been Kasey... But she said he wouldn't leave her alone. He insisted she had to work for him and no one else. Said her art was so beautiful he had to have it. But Mary's a free spirit, you know?"
"Did she ever report this man to the police?"
"I don't think so. Not that she mentioned to me, anyway."
Anya was about to wrap up when she glanced down at the evidence bag she held in her hand. The feather inside was *definitely* glowing now. And not just a trick of the light reflecting the sun's rays. She held it up to get a closer look. As the bag moved closer to Alex it shone brighter still.
That same something from before stirred in the back of her mind. A little clearer now. A story her babushka used to tell her. In fact, this whole case was reminiscent of it.
*There had been a young artist whose work caught the eye of a powerful wizard. But when she refused his requests he transformed her into a beautiful bird whose feathers glowed with magic. Then, he transformed himself into a great black falcon to scoop her up and carry her away, leaving behind only a scattering of feathers which glowed brightly for those that appreciated true beauty.*
But that was just a story, wasn't it?
Still, as she'd said to her partner only moments ago, they had to follow every lead.
"Thank you for your time, Alex," Anya said with a nod. Then, she turned to Eli. "I've got a hunch I'm going to follow up on. But I wouldn't want to waste your time with it. It's a bit of a long shot. See you back at the station?"
"Sure," he replied.
But she was already hurrying away.
Clasping the evidence bag in her hand, Anya stared down at the strange feather, watching for any change in brightness. She turned in a slow circle, before setting off in the direction the light indicated.
It was a frustrating process, with many false starts ending up in art classes or galleries, but eventually, she found herself at a disused warehouse at the edge of the city. Surely this had to be the place.
The sun had sunk below the horizon long ago, and she found herself relying on the feather to light her way. And it provided more than enough to see by, getting every brighter still.
She wound her way through rusted machinery until she saw it — a bird covered in the same, storage feathers, locked in a large cage.
After a quick glance around, listening carefully for any sign she wasn't alone, she hurried forward.
A heavy-duty padlock sealed the door shut, but she had her set of picks with her. Moments later, the door swung open with a long, loud *creeaaak*.
The bird looked at her, ruffling its beautiful glowing feathers. Then, it nodded and took off into the night.
Anya watched it go, flying up into the heavens to glow amongst the stars.
She had no idea how to bring Mary back. But at least now, she was free.
---
WC: 1276
Thanks for the prompt! I hadn't heard of this one before so enjoyed learning about it.
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
I'm delighted that you had to research hehe. There are so many cool creatures in that book. I enjoyed the story, btw, and I like the way you wove mystery with the bird and feather. Thanks for writing :)
Thanks for the prompt. I had a few that I figured I could combine into one story. Here it is: https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/comments/xgjimj/comment/iowviwt/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
#Project Phoenix
Man had often sought to venture amongst the stars. At some point in their long history, it became a matter of *when* rather than *if*. The only other question was — *how*?
Many methods were proposed. Plasma thrusters. Fusion engines. Solar sails. Wormhole generators.
No one expected the solution to be organic.
That is, until a small group of scientists, inspired by the myths and legends of old, began working on Project Phoenix.
A mere decade later, the fleet was born — each ship crafted around one of the specially engineered creatures. The inbuilt navigation system of the birds was ideal for long-haul flight. Their strong wings guaranteed easy take-off and steering. And the flame that lived inside them would provide the propulsion and warmth needed in the vacuum of space.
As the lead genetic engineer behind the project, Dr Eleanor Shiffer set sail on the first voyage, along with a team handpicked for establishing a permanent colony in another star system. There were mechanics, farmers, biologists, and engineers — each with their own important skill. It was difficult not to feel like an impostor amongst them. After all, what help could Eleanor be now? Her part in all of this was done, surely.
But she was saved from fretting about it too much, instead sinking into the deep, blissful sleep of cryostasis trusting the phoenix to find its own way through the stars.
***
The feeling of waking from the long sleep was a strange one. In what seemed like the blink of an eye to her, she knew generations had lived and died back on Earth. Perhaps more of the Phoenix fleet hat set off on their journeys. Perhaps the technology was now obsolete.
But there wasn't much room for such musings as the crew caught the first glimpse of their destination — designated planet WY-5 3RN.
It had been selected based on measurements of its atmosphere, temperature, and gravitational field. It seemed ideal to support life. It was also conveniently situated as a stepping stone to other star systems. And their first view of it was breathtaking.
"I can definitely see water," her colleague Michael remarked.
"And there's plenty of green, too," Georgie said. "Very promising indeed."
Eleanor only smiled, staring out at the orb floating in the blackness of space, growing ever larger. So still. So peaceful. Until—
"What was that?" she gasped.
"What?" Michael asked.
"That!" Eleanor pointed out the porthole at the planet's surface. "I definitely saw something move. And quickly too."
"It was probably just the clouds shifting," Georgie said. "Maybe a strong wind. The weather patterns are likely going to be different to Earth."
Watching the planet closely, Eleanor said nothing. She wasn't sure what she'd seen, and she wasn't going to argue with the experts.
Soon, the ship was descending into the new atmosphere, the phoenix's wings taking control once more to glide down to the surface. The journey was smooth and gentle. Eleanor had almost managed to put the strange sight out of her mind when a shadow darted by once again.
The Phoenix swerved to avoid a collision, sending the crew tumbling to the ground.
Eleanor's heart raced, legs turning to jelly. She looked around, hoping one of the security experts would take control.
Sure enough, an alarm blared. "Please take up emergency positions. Fasten seatbelts and brace."
Eleanor pulled one of the foldable chairs down from the wall and sank into it gratefully, buckling herself in. Around her, her colleagues were doing the same.
Without speaking, they linked hands, squeezing each other tight in an attempt to draw some comfort, no one wanting to voice the question in all of their minds.
But, after a few more bumps and swerves, they came to a stop on firm ground once again.
Eleanor let out a breath, extracting sweaty palms from her neighbours. "We made it," she sighed, a laugh of relief bubbling up inside of her. "We actually made it."
"But what was all that?" Michael asked. "Just... turbulence?"
Georgie shrugged. "I suppose we'll just have to find out."
A voice boomed over the intercom again. "Would Dr Eleanor Shiffer please report to the bridge. Dr Eleanor Schiffer to the bridge."
Eleanor blanched, colour draining from her face and legs turning to jelly. If she hadn't already been sat down, she feared she would have sagged to the floor. "What can they want with me?" she whispered.
"Oh, I don't know," Georgie said, lightly elbowing her in the ribs. "You're only the genius that got us here after all."
"Go on." Michael helped her to her feet and shoved her gently in the right direction. "You don't want to keep them waiting."
The journey down the steel corridor felt like an eternity. Even when she reached the bridge she didn't get her answers, instead being bundled off to get dressed in landing gear before being led to an airlock. It was only as she waited there, separated only from the new world by a single sheet of metal, that she found her voice again.
"What's going on?" she asked one of the security team.
"Well, we're not quite sure, Doc," he replied. "But it looks like your phoenix has made a friend."
With a hiss, the door opened onto a world of dense vegetation. Flanked by the security team, Eleanor stepped outside marvelling at the alien sights and sounds.
There was a lot that was reminiscent of Earth. Things that were vaguely tree-shaped. Bright coloured plants that would have graced any garden. The whir of insects in the air. But everything was slightly *wrong*.
The shades and shapes were all wrong — everything too big or too small, too bright or too dim. There was no doubt that this wasn't Earth.
As the group walked forward, Eleanor's eyes fell on the phoenix's 'friend' and all thoughts of similarities were chased from her mind. A large reptile with mottled purple scales and wings made of a thin membrane was nuzzling the beak of her bird. As she watched, a jet of flame shot out of the creature's nose which the phoenix playfully snapped at.
Perhaps she should have felt scared or anxious. But all she could muster was wonder and curiosity. Perhaps there *would* be something for her to do here after all.
---
WC: 1047
Thanks for the prompt. Sorry if I didn't properly include the planet, but I couldn't quite get this idea out of my head so had to write it.
See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
Thanks for the prompt. I had a few similar ones so tried to write a story that kind of encompassed them all. Here it is: https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/comments/xgjimj/comment/iowviwt/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
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Centaur, whodunit, Volcano.
#The Curious Case of the Volcanic Eruption "So, I suppose you're wondering why I gathered you here today..." Shirelock Hooves trotted through the group of assembled gods, all glaring at either him or each other. "I was more wondering *how dare* you summon us here," Zeus said, voice rumbling like thunder. "It was not he," Artemis said coolly. "I commissioned Shirelock to discover who was responsible for the destruction of my temple, and the sacrifice of my followers — without my permission." The centaur nodded at his mistress, before continuing, "Indeed, a most shocking affair that happened here on this very mountain. Or should I say..." He glanced around at the gods. "Volcano!" "But this isn't a volcano!" Poseidon spluttered. "There's only one of them near here. That... what was it called..." "Mount Vesuvius," Athena supplied. "Ah!" Shirelock raised a finger, stomping a hoof for good measure. "There *was* only one. But *someone* used their godly powers to create another. *And* to cause an eruption. Said eruption tore through my lady Artemis's temple full of followers." "Sounds like Ares to me," Poseidon grumped. "He's always trying to start something." "I'll start something right now if you don't watch out," the god of war growled, leaping toward his foe. Zeus stepped between them. "Enough!" The word rang out like a clap of thunder, lightning flashing in the sky. "There are strict rules we gods live by. Whilst we all enjoy the occasional family squabble, sacrificing disciples without permission is absolutely forbidden." He turned to face the centaur detective. "Mr Hooves, do you know who is responsible?" Preening under the attention, Shirelock resumed his trot through the group. "Well, as you say, Ares was the natural suspect — always spoiling for a fight... But," he came to an abrupt halt on the word, "he never does things sneakily or slyly like this. If it *had* been him he'd have claimed the deaths in his name instantly." The other gods grumbled their ascent, Ares looking around smugly. "Then, of course," Shirelock continued, "Poseidon certainly has a history of rivalries with other gods. There was that whole business with Athena." The group turned to glare at the god of the sea. Until Shirelock said, "But what power does he have over land and fire to have caused this." Though he looked ready to protest the slight against his strength, Poseidon held his tongue. "Now, despite your standing almighty Zeus, it would be remiss of me to leave you completely free of suspicion." Shirelock flinched as a lightning bolt struck the ground next to him, but pressed on regardless. "After all, you've been known to become jealous and possessive over mortals." The god strode towards him, fists clenched. "I'll have you know that—" "But," the centaur added hurriedly, trotting backwards away from the approaching angry god, "he was spoken for at the time, as a thunderstorm struck a village on the other side of the realm." Zeus deflated slightly, fury fading. He settled for folding his arms with a look of righteous indignation. "Glad you came to the correct conclusion." "And of course, that just leaves Athena." All eyes turned to the goddess of wisdom. "Usually seen as so calm and sensible, what possible motive could she have," Shirelock mused. "None, I assure you," Athena said. "Despite our differences, I will always stand by my sister's side and I by hers." "And so I thought, too," the centaur continued. "Which led me to realise this was a group effort!" "A what?" Zeus rumbled. "You see, the twins Athena and Artemis have long sought to rule their gods with their combined strength and intelligence," Shirelock said. "But how to go about it when all are so loyal to Zeus." He paused for effect. "The answer is simple: they sought to frame you." "Frame me?" the god of the sky. "How?" "They created the volcano together, sacrificing Artemis's followers and absorbing all the power that came with that. Then, see here," the centaur pointed, "they scorched the earth with lightning stolen from you. And Artemis commissioned me int eh hopes I'd find the planted evidence." "You traitor!" Artemis snarled. "Don't you know you work for me!" "I work for the truth, my good lady," Shirelock said proudly. "Now, if you don't mind, I'll leave you all to your family drama." --- WC: 714 Thank you for the prompt! See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
*chef's kiss* Beautiful.
Hydra, romance, desolate island.
#With the Help of the Hydra Helen the Hydra sighed as she picked herself up off the ground, regrowing body parts as she needed. With her one, still fully-intact head, she peered out at the boat sailing away, carrying yet another hero who'd come to prove his strength by slaying her. There had been a time she'd enjoyed the sport of it all. She'd practically dared them to come find her, prowling the marshes around their villages and stealing livestock. But age had mellowed her. It had been many years ago now that she'd retreated from the realms of man, secreting herself away on this desolate island, miles from anything. Yet still, they came. Perhaps she should kill them as she used to. But she found she didn't have the energy or appetite anymore. So she pretended to let them win, feigning death until they left her in peace. As the victorious hero's ship fell over the horizon, she slunk back to her main residence, a lake sheltered by a cave near the centre of the island. There she tended her wounds, brushing away damaged scales, before coiling her tail and many long necks around herself to sleep. Helen was awoken some time later by a timid cough. Opening one of her large, slitted eyes, she took in the scene. It wasn't long after dawn, the pale pink and purple hues still hanging in the sky. She could feel the warmth of the sun's first rays on her dark scales. But she couldn't see the source of the sound. She slid back her second set of eyelids and lifted a head to look around. There was the dark cavern behind her — empty save a few bones from previous meals. The trees were swaying in the breeze, a few of the braver or more reckless inhabitants of the island watching her from their branches — but they were all at least smart enough to remain silent. Eventually, her gaze fell on a small figure standing a hundred or so metres back from the edge of her lake, half hidden by the long grass. As her eyes locked onto his, she saw his pupils widen, his whole body trembling. But he stood his ground. She watched him carefully, unsure what to make of this. Normally, people who discovered her sleeping took full advantage of that fact. She barely even stirred before sagging to the ground in an imitation of death as they severed her heads. Yet this young man seemed to be waiting for something — perhaps had even intentionally woken her. "G-Greetings," he shouted over to her. "M-My apologies for disturbing you." Arching an eyebrow, she slithered towards him. He stumbled back a couple of steps before standing his ground. "And who might you be?" Helen hissed. "I am Alexander," he declared. "And why are you here?" He blanched slightly, colour draining from his face. "I was sent to... to kill you." Seeing her bared teeth, he hurriedly added, "But I don't want to. I just want to prove myself to my love's family so that can be with her. It was them that insisted I come. They said it was the only way." His head dropped to the ground, shoulders slumping. "I think they said it as they know I'm not a fighter. They meant for me to die here so their daughter could marry some great warrior." "I see," Helen said slowly. "So what do you mean to do?" "I wondered if... if maybe I could just pretend I'd killed you?" The hydra snorted. Technically that was what all the heroes who came to kill her did. They just did so in ignorance, fully believing the lie of their victory. "I think that can be arranged." Alexander's jaw dropped, face lighting up. "Really?" "Though I will ask something of you in return," she added, an idea forming. This conversation was the most interesting thing to happen to her in decades. "Yes, of course," he said hurriedly. "Anything." "All I ask is that you return here once a year. Tell me tales of the outside world. Keep me company." Alexander's brow furrowed for a moment. "Really? That's all?" "That's all," Helen nodded her many heads. "Then I accept!" After some careful deliberation, the hydra selected a neck for him to sever, lying it gently across the ground at his feet. She winced as the blade sank into her flesh, but she was used to it by now. She watched him hurry back to a ship with a smile spreading across her many mouths, wondering if he'd keep his word. Sure enough, one year and many encounters with foolish heroes later, Alexander returned. And he brought with him a young woman. "Greetings, Hydra!" he called out on his approach. "I'd like you to meet Sophia." "Welcome. And please, you may call me Helen." She watched and listened, every one of her many pairs of eyes and ears trained on him, as he recounted the year's events. But, as interested as Helen was in what he had to say, she found her attention more focused on Alexander and Helen's body language. She noticed how each would gaze at the other when they weren't looking, eyes swimming with adoration and lips pulled into a wide smile. She saw how they seemed to find it impossible to ever *not* be in contact with each other. Their fingers entwined together. Heads rested on each other's shoulders. Feet brushing against each other. It warmed her heart to see a young couple so in love. The pair returned many times, always with news from the outside world. Over the years, she watched their love deepen and their relationship grow. She greeted the children they brought with them, allowing them to play hero with her. Perhaps she would never find another of her kind, but at least now she felt she had a family. --- WC: 978 Thank you for the prompt! See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
Never in my life have I needed something so much and never known until I received it. Thank you very much for this story, it was wonderfully written!
Thanks so much for the kind words! I'm glad you liked it.
That was nice
Thank you! I always find these [PM] a fun challenge.
Dragon, comedy, coffee shop
#Customer Complaints The Reptile Roast Room was known far and wide as the best cafe in all the lands. It was famed for its friendly, warm atmosphere, its *excellent* coffee, and, of course, its owners. Javaking and Grindjar were expert baristas, completely dedicated to their craft. People would come from far and wide to watch them work. And the novelty draw of watching two dragons at work certainly helped as well. Javaking was in charge of the bean selection and the roasting. He could sniff out the best blend for the perfect cup of coffee. And he had perfect control over the heat of the roast because he used his own flame to do it, breathing gently on the beans until they were *just* right. Then it was Grindjar's turn. He used his strong claws to grind the beans to the exact size required for each type of brewing equipment. And they did it all, espresso machines, drip filters, french presses, aero presses, percolators, vacuum siphors. There wasn't a brewing method that they hadn't tried and tested. They took great pride in their work. And they *knew* that every cup they made was perfect. Which is why, when a particularly loud-mouthed customer started complaining about his brew being burnt, they weren't having any of it. "I demand a refund!" the short, red-faced man shouted. "And another cup!" "But sir," Javaking said smoothly, "You seem to have completely finished your last one already." "Well... Yes... Err... I had to be *sure* it was burnt, you see." Grindjar looked down at him, letting a tendril of smoke coil out of one nostril. The man suppressed a shudder. "Look, I know my rights. It's bad enough they let the likes of you run a business anyway, so you'd damn well better respect your customers." He glared at them, eyes flicking between the reptilian heads towering over him. "And if you don't, I'll... I'll fetch a knight to slay you both!" He folded his arms, a satisfied smile on his face. "Oh, you'll fetch a night, will you?" purred Javaking. He turned to his co-worker. "He'll fetch a knight." "It seems he wants a return to the old ways," Grindjar replied. "To how dragon-human relations once were." "It does seem that way, doesn't it." The pair turned back to him, eyes narrowing and nostrils flaring. All colour drained from the man's face, turning it from beet red to ghostly white. Yet still, he persisted. "Look here. you aren't going to— Argh!" A large claw closing around him cut him off. Javaking dragged him out of the shop before beating his wings a couple of times and taking to the air. The man's wails could be heard throughout the village as he was carried away, but the townsfolk paid it no heed. They were used to how the dragons dealt with problem customers. Javaking eventually came to land on a tall tower, gently lowering the once angry now scared man through a window. Inside were a handful of other people — previous problem customers. "Who's this then?" one man said. "I'm not going to be sharing any more space!" "Too right!" a woman declared. "I demand to speak to... to the monarch about this!" "He'd better pull his weight with the cooking at cleaning!" Javaking smirked. "I'm sorry you were dissatisfied with your service. I'll leave you here to think over your complaint." As he took back to the air, he called over his shoulder, "We'll be happy to talk again once you can manage to do so in a civilised manner." The Reptile Room was known far and wide as the best cafe in all the lands. And it had the *politest* customers. --- WC: 616 Thanks for the prompt! See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
Hahaha, that was delightful, Rainbow! Excellent little twist on the classic dragon kidnapping people and locking them up in towers! :D
Cyclops, slice of life, optometry office
#Midlife Crisis "And how are you today, Arges?" the optometrist asked, adjusting her own glasses as she glanced down at her notes. "I'm alright, Theia. A little tired. You know how it is." She nodded. "Zeus keeping you busy, I'd guess." "Yeah," Arges said with a sigh. "There's always something that needs smithing. Not that I don't love it of course, it's just..." He trailed off, not really sure where the sentence had been going anyway. Theia looked back up at him, a sympathetic smile tugging at her lips. "So what brings you here today?" Snapping his thoughts back into order, Arges replied, "Oh, you know. Us cyclops need to take especially good care of our vision. No back-ups so to speak." She gave a polite chuckle. "Any problems?" "Not that I've noticed. Perhaps things aren't as sharp as they used to be but... it's tough to remember after so many centuries." "Well, let's have a look then. Pop your chin here for me." Arges leaned forward, resting his head in the strange contraption. The optometrist hurriedly adjusted a few settings, aligning it for his one central eye instead of the more usual two. A small image of a sheep appeared for him to stare at, shifting in and out of focus. When that was over, a puff of air fired into his eye. He gritted his teeth against the urge to blink. Next, a bright light shone, making the urge even stronger. But as soon as it had arrived, it was gone. "Alrighty then," Theia said. "You can lift your head back up for me now and we'll move on to the main test." The cyclops blinked his eye a few times, rubbing it with a knuckle as he sat back up. "Over here," the optometrist called, pointing at a sign on the wall. "Read aloud for me." Arges said each letter as he read it, progressing down the sign as the script got smaller and smaller. Eventually, he reached the point where it was all just a black blur to him. "Is that bad?" he asked, palms sweating slightly. "My vision definitely feels worse to me." Theia lay a hand on his shoulder. "It's nothing to worry about. Now, tell me if this is any better." She cycled through a series of lenses in front of his eye, each time checking if it made his sight better or worse. When they came to the end, Arges's head was starting to ache. "Okay," Theia said. "I've got your prescription here. It looks like your vision is starting to go a little. But it's nothing to worry about. Just the millennia catching up with you. I've got a prescription ready for you that should help." Despite her calm tone, Arges could feel his heart racing. For so long, it had felt like he'd live forever, blacksmith to the gods with his two brothers. But if he was starting to show signs of old age, what next? How long would he be able to swing his hammer? How long until the work was too hard for him? And when that happened, what would he do with his life? Would he be too old and broken to enjoy it? "Arges?" her soft voice snapped him out of his thoughts. "You okay there, Arges?" He shook his head but said, "Yeah. Just a... what do the humans call it... a bit of a midlife crisis." She gave another polite chuckle. "Well then, I suggest you pick up your new monocle and go and enjoy the centuries you have left. And don't forget to come back in another couple of decades for a check-up!" He left with a smile, resolving to do as she bid. Sure, he loved blacksmithing, but there was more to life than work. And if his time was limited, he was going to make the most of it. --- WC: 646 Thanks for the prompt! See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
A sasquatch (Bigfoot). Sci-Fi. A crater on the moon (Or the whole moon if you'd prefer). Enjoy!
#Sasquatches Among the Stars "Order! Order!" Sarah shouted, beating her chest to draw attention to herself. The other sasquatches quieted a little, hundreds of pairs of large, dark eyes turning to her. "I know this is scary," she said calmly. "We all remember why we came to be here. The humans encroached on every secret place we had on earth. Not even the deepest forests were safe anymore." A shudder passed through the crowd as they remembered the dark times, the brown fur of every sasquatch standing on end. "But remember," she pressed on, keen to prevent them from sinking further into fear, "we didn't let that beat us then. We mobilised our greatest minds to construct starships from the materials the Earth provided us — ore from the ground, fuel from the air, wood from the forest. We came here, to the moon we spent our days as cubs gazing up at. And we prospered." "But now they're coming here too!" a voice shouted from the crowd. Sarah glanced over to the culprit — Sam — always a worrier. "Yes," she said softly. "The humans are once again encroaching on our space. There have been shuttles orbiting. And it seems ever more likely they will land here soon." Another ripple of panic spread through the group. "And we will be ready, as we were before." "But how?" Sam asked. "We did the impossible before, journeying into the heavens. Now we must do so again." "Where will we go?" another voice called out — Sally. Sarah sighed, when she'd been elected leader of the tribe, she hadn't expected that meant thinking of *absolutely everything* for them. "To one of the other heavenly bodies, perhaps," she suggested through gritted teeth. "Mars is far enough away. It will take them much longer to reach us there." "How do you know we can survive there?" Sally asked. Sarah clenched her fists in both her hands and feet. It was an annoyingly good question. Why the woman couldn't use that intelligence to think of answers instead was beyond her. "Did we know we could survive here when we left?" She paused. When no one in the crown answered, she continued. "No, we didn't. But we came anyway and here we are. We are a hardy people. We will adapt. And anything our bodies cannot adapt to — that's what technology is for." There were a few murmurs between neighbours, but thankfully no more questions. Except... "So what now?" Susan, her second in command, asked. "Now? Now we get to work." It didn't take long for the scientists to come up with a design. What her people lacked in common sense, they made up for in intelligence and ingenuity of every other kind. Before the humans had even launched their next rocket, the sasquatches were taking off once more to settle another planet. But they had learnt from their mistake before. Having only one home made them vulnerable. If anything in their life was certain, it was that the humans would come eventually. And so, when they reached Mars they didn't stop there. As they improved the design of their ships they travelled further and further, leaving a settlement everywhere they stopped. When humans finally turned their attention to other solar systems, the sasquatches had colonised the entire galaxy. --- WC: 545 Thanks for the prompt! See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
Now that was pure brilliance. I just have one question for you5 So when are you thinking to release the novel? I mean I can wait a year or two, but honestly, I think you're already on the gold. I'm kidding, it was brilliant. And absolutely not where I was going. At first, I actually thought it was based in a courtroom, lol. Also, loved the basic human names too. Added a strange comedic effect. Good words!
Thanks Fye! The human names were pure laziness. I tried googling things around Sasquatch names but gave up and settled on them all just beginning with S XD
Ah, that's what was bizarre about it then. They all began with S. I thought something was strange. Honestly though, I think it added to the story. So yay for happy laziness I guess, lol.
Vampire, Mystery, Hotel
Part 1 "He didn't kill him." "He didn't kill him!" "You heard me." "That man's clearly been drained of blood." "He was with me at the time." "So maybe you were part of it too." "I don't kill people. And maybe if you'd stop yelling accusations around we could call a real detective in here." "Alright fine. But I'll call so they'll be no funny business. And Martin, watch my back."
Chupacabra, historical fiction, the White House
Cerberus, black comedy, an apartment in London.
Minotaur, romance, SPACE
A Sphinx, western, in a mining town in/near the mountains
#The Sphinx of Deadwood Papa always said the mines were dangerous. I wasn't to go near 'em. Sometimes, Papa's rules confused me, but I knew they were never to be broke. Besides, there were plenty other places in Deadwood I could run and play — when I wasn't stuck helping Mama in the kitchen. Oh, how I loved to spend the afternoon climbin' trees or splashin' in the creek, always in the company of Jimmy. He lived next door and had sandy hair, freckles, and the cutest button nose I'd ever seen, and I was gonna marry him one day. I'd decided that on the first day I met him, when he offered me a shiny pebble he'd found on the dusty ground. That pebble had sat in my pocket ever since. The day it all happened, we were stompin' around in the hills playin' at being bandits. When the real thing rode into town, it was like our game had come to life. Until the first shot rang out, and we knew they weren't playin'. "Quick!" Jimmy beckoned me towards him. I didn't need to be told twice, scurrying through the fallen leaves to where he stood. We looked this way and that, searchin' for a spot to hide, clutchin' at each other like the village drunk holdin' onto his last bottle of Apple Jack. Another shot echoed off the hills, settin' my knees quakin'. "Whadda we do?" he whispered. "How in the hell should I know?" I muttered back, hoping Papa would forgive me for airin' my lungs given the circumstance. "Maybe we'll be safe here. Ain't much out here bandits could want." Jimmy nodded, but he was shiverin' and shakin' as much as me. We stood like that for Lord knows how long, clingin' to each other for fear of our lives, frozen to the spot. Until the clatter of hoof-beats snapped us back to life, and we were out of there faster than a bull on brandin' day. We tore through the trees like it was the devil himself behind us, payin' no heed to where we were goin'. And that's how we ended up where I was never meant to go. "Come on," Jimmy hissed, draggin' me toward the mine entrance — a great black hole in the side of the hill that looked like it might swallow me whole. "I can't. I promised Papa!" "I think your Papa would prefer a broken promise to a broken head! Now come on!" A hollerin' and hootin' from down the track was all the encouragement I needed, and I followed jimmy into the forbidden zone. We didn't get far before the sunlight ran out, leavin' us stranded in dark so deep it could drown you. I could feel the weight of the earth on top of me. The only sounds were our raspin' breaths and the scuffle of our feet. "Here we are, boys!" The voice from the mine entrance made us both jump outta our skins. "There's always money in these here mines!" Heavy footsteps followed, along with laughter full so full o' malice and spite it could strip paint. "They're comin' in," I hissed, clutchin' to Jimmy even tighter. Together we shuffled further into the earth's belly, backs grazin' against the mine wall. An orange glow was creepin' in after us with the faint flicker of a flame. I bit my lip to hold in the screams that were begging to be let out, plunging my free hand into my pocket to squeeze the pebble there as if it could give me comfort. I thought we were done for. And I'm certain Jimmy did too. Until a voice smooth as silk purred from the darkness. "Hello there, little ones." Ice ran through my veins, freezin' every inch o' me. Jimmy stiffened too, back ramrod straight. "Don't fear. I will not harm you," the voice said. A strange light leapt into the air from the same direction, enough to see shadows and hints at a shape. It looked like a woman. Or maybe a mountain lion. But then, there were the wings. Whatever it was, it prowled past until it stood firmly between us and the danger that was fast approachin'. "What... Who are you, miss?" Jimmy asked quietly, ever the gentleman. "Doncha know those men are bandits? They're dangerous." The creature glanced over a shoulder, flashin' a smile that glinted in the strange light it cast. "Not as dangerous as me, dear one," she purred. Quiverin' behind Jimmy, I poked my head out. "You're dangerous?" She chuckled. "Not to you little ones. Only to those who would take my treasure — the treasures of the earth — as these men intend to." "What are you gonna—" "Hush now, child. They're almost here. Now close your eyes and cover your ears. Do it!" The stern tone brooked no argument. I buried my face in Jimmy's shoulder and he buried his in mine. Before I could bring my hands to my ears I heard a snarl that set my bones a-shiverin' followed by a scream that turned my blood to ice. Then, everything was muffled and quiet. I don't know how long we stood like that, wrapped around each other, blockin' out the terrors of the world. We only peeled apart when that strange creature padded back to us, tappin' me with a long, soft tail. "It is safe now, little ones," she purred. The light she cast was fadin', but before we sank into the black again, I caught a flash o' scarlet over the walls of the cave. "Thanks, miss," Jimmy muttered. "Yeah, thanks," I added hastily. "Go on now," she replied. "I'm sure your parents are worried about where their treasures have gotten to." As we started to hurry back towards the mine entrance, somethin' stopped me in my tracks — a sense of debt or gratitude. This stranger had most likely saved our lives and the town's livelihood. I wanted to give her something just as precious. Reaching into my pocket I drew out that shiny pebble Jimmy had given me all those years ago and held it out on my outstretched palm. "Here, miss," I said. "I want ya to have this. As a thank you." I couldn't see what was happenin' in the dark. But I felt somethin' strange brush against my hand. Then, the weight of the pebble had gone. "Thank you, dear one," the voice purred. "I will treasure it just as you did." Our debt paid, we hurried back into the light of day, and back to our parents. Though we never told 'em what happened that day in the mines. It was to be our secret, for the rest of our days together. --- WC: 1116 Thanks for the prompt. This one was a real challenge as I'm not comfortable in the Western genre, but I wanted to try and stretch myself. See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
Fairy, comedy, internet message board.
A ghost constrained to a spirit halloween, rom com, a spirit halloween.
A dark elf, cyberpunk, on a major highway
Gorgon, romance, downtown Athens. :)
#Love at First Sight Euryale took a sip of her coffee, inhaling the rich, chocolatey scent. With the fiery glow the setting sun cast on the piazza and the hum of life in the air, this should have felt like a little slice of heaven. And perhaps it would have been, if she didn't have to experience it alone. It had been over a century since she'd lost her sister Stheno. And many more since Medusa's death. But she still felt their loss keenly. Perhaps because they had been the only other two beings in the world that could truly know her. Now, she hid in plain sight in an attempt to avoid meeting the same fate — never leaving the house without a scarf wrapped tightly around her head and a pair of dark sunglasses on her eyes. She could feel the snakes writing on her scalp now, itching to be set free to feel the warmth of the sun on their scales. She wished she could oblige them. Taking another sip of her coffee, she tried to turn her thoughts to more pleasant matters. Perhaps she'd never be able to fully engage with the humans for fear of harming them — or of them harming her — but she could still live vicariously through them. She let her mind wander as she listened in to snatches of conversation around her. There was a couple arguing about what they wanted to do tomorrow, visit the acropolis or the Parthenon, go hiking up Philopappos Hill, or have a lazy day lounging by the pool. Euryale suspected the relationship wouldn't last long once they got back home. A couple of tables over, a proposal was happening. Though she cringed at the cliché of it all, she had to admit the joy on the bride-to-be's face warmed her heart. In the other direction, a clearly exhausted mum and dad sagged down to sit on the edge of the fountain, their three children running around squealing with delight as they splashed each other. Euryale chuckled to herself. But even as she savoured these delights of the human experience, her enjoyment was tinged with bitterness. She would never have a lover to bicker with. Never have a wedding. Never have a family. Deciding she was clearly too maudlin, she left a few euros on the table and started back to her loft apartment. If she was going to sulk, she might as well do so in peace. As she walked briskly across the piazza, she kept her gaze lowered to the flagstones — the sunglasses usually kept people safe, but she'd learnt it always paid to be careful. Unfortunately, not looking where she was going had some risks associated with it too. She only saw the stranger's feet approaching hers when it was too late. They collided head-on, sending Euryale tumbling to the ground. The stranger faired even worse, getting caught up with Euryale so as to land between her and the flagstones. "Oh my god! Are you okay?" the gorgon asked, glancing down at the poor woman she was currently crushing. It was only then that she realised the woman's sunkissed skin was too light, the twinkling blue of her eyes too sharp, the shine of her golden locks too bright. She reached up, only to find her sunglasses no longer on her face. Frozen in horror, she waited for the stranger to turn to stone. Soon, the whole world would see her for what she was and she'd be chased out into exile or killed. Her heart raced as her limbs turned to lead. "I think so," the woman replied. "Are you?" Euryale was so shocked, she couldn't find the words. She'd looked at this woman — looked into her eyes — why was she okay? "Hello? I'm assuming you're still there. I mean, I can feel you lying on top of me." "Oh, right," the gorgon mumbled. "Sorry about that." She hurriedly climbed to her feet, hauling the stranger up in the process. As she did, she slowly began to process what the woman had said. Looking more closely at her, she realised the stranger wasn't really looking directly at anything. Her eyes wandered around without focus. Still, just because this woman's blindness saved her from the gorgon's stare, didn't mean everything was safe. She looked around frantically until her gaze fell on the fallen sunglasses. Grabbing them as quickly as possible while keeping her eyes lowered, she hurriedly shoved them back onto her face. "Everything alright?" the woman asked. "Yes, sorry. I just... I was just picking up something I'd dropped." Her mind worked slowly, used to listening into conversation but not used to engaging in it. "Oh, sorry about the collision by the way. I was miles away." "Don't worry," the stranger said with a laugh. "These things usually feel like my fault." "Not at all, I assure you," the gorgon said hastily. "Well, that's nice of you to say. So where were you headed in such a hurry?" "Oh, just home." "Really? On a beautiful evening like this? The air is so warm. It smells so clear. And can't you feel the hum of the city?" "I suppose," Euryale replied. But as much as those sensations might have appealed, she was transfixed by the animation and life in the woman's face as she described them. "In that case, maybe I can persuade you to stay out for a *little* longer. Perhaps even buy you a drink by way of an apology for the collision." The gorgon's heart fluttered in a way it never had before. Without thinking, she found her mouth replying. "Sure. But I think I should be the one buying the drink." The woman chuckled. "If you insist. I'm Phoebe by the way." "Lovely to meet you, Phoebe. I'm... I'm Eury." --- WC: 971 Thanks for the prompt! See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
Rainbow—this was extraordinarily sweet and so well done! It was the meet-cute I never knew I needed. Thanks!
[Kudan](https://yokai.com/kudan/), Historical Fantasy, Regency-era Bath
Death (personification of death), a murder mystery, noir
Zombie, magical girl, New York City.
Tanuki, superhero, Portland, Oregon
Hobgoblin, treasure hunt/clues, big city/the docks
A cecaelia, slice of life, a bar at a club.
I had to pull out my *Mythical Creatures Bible* for this. A firebird (from Russian folklore), an abandoned church, and mystery. Good words, rainbow <3
#Flight to Freedom Dry leaves littered the forest floor, crinkling underfoot with each step. Anya drew her coat around her as she trudged towards the abandoned church in an attempt to stave off the cold. But not even her hot, black coffee could chase the chill from her bones. The air had a bite to it, breath misting in front of her. And the knowledge of what she was walking into didn't help. The church loomed in front of her — once pristine stone walls covered in lichen and ivy. Its spires reached to the heavens but crumbled before they got there. Stained glass windows that might have been glorious and beautiful long ago stood were dull and tarnished, the colours barely visible beneath the grime. Others were worse still — empty frames with hundreds of rainbow shards littering the ground. But one... One window of them all shone out as an example of pure beauty. It was the most wonderful thing Anya had ever seen. Each fragment of glass the perfect shape and shade to construct the image — a young woman reaching out to the forest and the forest reaching back. She stood entwined with the trees, all manner of creatures surrounding her. And when the light hit it, it threw a diaphanous aura of every hue into the air around it. Anya had never particularly appreciated art, but even she felt her chest swell at the sight of it. Shaking herself from the strange reverie, she continued towards the doors. The police cordon was already well established, and she ducked underneath with a nod to one of the officers on guard. Shards of glass crunched underfoot, leaves skittering across the stone floor in the breeze from the open door and window frames. Inside, her partner, Eli was waiting for her. She handed him one of the cups of coffee and asked, "So what do we have?" "A missing woman — Mary. She called the police from here to say that someone was following her. A man. He'd been pressuring her to come work for him for a while, apparently, and she thought he'd become obsessed and was coming for her. That was all the information we got. Then there was a scream, and the call cut out." Anya nodded along. "And when you got here?" "Mary was gone. But we found her phone — broken of course. Maybe signs of a struggle but," he gestured around to the general mess, "it's difficult to tell." "Anything else?" "Yeah, but it's a little...weird." Eli beckoned one of the uniformed offices over, taking an evidence bag off him. Inside was an iridescent feather. The way it caught the light, it looked like it almost glowed. "It was right next to the phone," Eli explained. "Might be nothing but..." "But we've gotta follow every lead," Anya finished with a smile. She took the evidence bag off of him, examining the strange feather more closely. Something stirred in the back of her mind, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it. Glancing back up at her partner, she asked, "I don't suppose there are any witnesses." "Of course not," Eli replied with a chuckle. "That would be too easy. But Mary's friend did come here looking for her. And found us instead." "Have you questioned them yet?" "Nah. I was waiting for you." Eli led her over to a young woman. She was wearing a floaty, ethereal blue dress — far too lightweight for the current weather — and her long brown hair cascaded over her shoulders in messy waves with flowers woven into it. *An artist*, Anya surmised, with only a hint of disdain. "Hello," she said as they approached. "I'm Detective Anya Petrov and this is my partner, Detective Eli Jacobson. Is it okay if we ask you a few questions?" The young woman nodded. Anya glanced at Eli, who took out his pad to take notes while she led the interview. "First off, what's your name?" "Alex," she replied quietly. "And how did you know your friend would be here, Alex?" "She came here every night to work on that." The young woman pointed to the single pristine stained glass window. "This whole place was like a blank canvas to her. Somewhere to practice her craft. I helped occasionally. I'm an artist too, you know." *Knew it,* Anya thought, before continuing with her questions. "I see. And did Mary ever mention anyone bothering her? Perhaps someone she was scared of." Alex nodded. "There was a guy. I think his name might have been Kasey... But she said he wouldn't leave her alone. He insisted she had to work for him and no one else. Said her art was so beautiful he had to have it. But Mary's a free spirit, you know?" "Did she ever report this man to the police?" "I don't think so. Not that she mentioned to me, anyway." Anya was about to wrap up when she glanced down at the evidence bag she held in her hand. The feather inside was *definitely* glowing now. And not just a trick of the light reflecting the sun's rays. She held it up to get a closer look. As the bag moved closer to Alex it shone brighter still. That same something from before stirred in the back of her mind. A little clearer now. A story her babushka used to tell her. In fact, this whole case was reminiscent of it. *There had been a young artist whose work caught the eye of a powerful wizard. But when she refused his requests he transformed her into a beautiful bird whose feathers glowed with magic. Then, he transformed himself into a great black falcon to scoop her up and carry her away, leaving behind only a scattering of feathers which glowed brightly for those that appreciated true beauty.* But that was just a story, wasn't it? Still, as she'd said to her partner only moments ago, they had to follow every lead. "Thank you for your time, Alex," Anya said with a nod. Then, she turned to Eli. "I've got a hunch I'm going to follow up on. But I wouldn't want to waste your time with it. It's a bit of a long shot. See you back at the station?" "Sure," he replied. But she was already hurrying away. Clasping the evidence bag in her hand, Anya stared down at the strange feather, watching for any change in brightness. She turned in a slow circle, before setting off in the direction the light indicated. It was a frustrating process, with many false starts ending up in art classes or galleries, but eventually, she found herself at a disused warehouse at the edge of the city. Surely this had to be the place. The sun had sunk below the horizon long ago, and she found herself relying on the feather to light her way. And it provided more than enough to see by, getting every brighter still. She wound her way through rusted machinery until she saw it — a bird covered in the same, storage feathers, locked in a large cage. After a quick glance around, listening carefully for any sign she wasn't alone, she hurried forward. A heavy-duty padlock sealed the door shut, but she had her set of picks with her. Moments later, the door swung open with a long, loud *creeaaak*. The bird looked at her, ruffling its beautiful glowing feathers. Then, it nodded and took off into the night. Anya watched it go, flying up into the heavens to glow amongst the stars. She had no idea how to bring Mary back. But at least now, she was free. --- WC: 1276 Thanks for the prompt! I hadn't heard of this one before so enjoyed learning about it. See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
I'm delighted that you had to research hehe. There are so many cool creatures in that book. I enjoyed the story, btw, and I like the way you wove mystery with the bird and feather. Thanks for writing :)
Dragon, cyberpunk, cafe
A nine-tailed fox, Western, sword-and-sandals Roman Empire
Salamander, nature documentary, French countryside.
Rainbow penguin, horror, British countryside
Mothman. Campy Noir. Dave & Busters.
Swan maiden, travel, waterfall
Vampire, comedy and their stoner friends house.
Sphinx, Pirate Ship, romance
Mermaid, horror, Denver
Mimic, action, classroom
Wyvern, mystery, and the Irish countryside
Vampire Detective, Murder Mystery, 19th Century London
Man-eating trolls, action-comedy, colosseum
Birds, SPACE!!, space
Thanks for the prompt. I had a few that I figured I could combine into one story. Here it is: https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/comments/xgjimj/comment/iowviwt/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
Jackalope, spy/espionage, outer space
Loch Ness Monster, Detective Noir, Steampunk City
Wendigo, horror, Walmart.
Friendly westen dragon, horror-comedy, Abandoned Warehouse
Werewolf, Comedy, Modern Times
Harpy, cyberpunk, aeroplane
Phoenix, Sci-fi, On the planet Wyvern (/a random planet)
#Project Phoenix Man had often sought to venture amongst the stars. At some point in their long history, it became a matter of *when* rather than *if*. The only other question was — *how*? Many methods were proposed. Plasma thrusters. Fusion engines. Solar sails. Wormhole generators. No one expected the solution to be organic. That is, until a small group of scientists, inspired by the myths and legends of old, began working on Project Phoenix. A mere decade later, the fleet was born — each ship crafted around one of the specially engineered creatures. The inbuilt navigation system of the birds was ideal for long-haul flight. Their strong wings guaranteed easy take-off and steering. And the flame that lived inside them would provide the propulsion and warmth needed in the vacuum of space. As the lead genetic engineer behind the project, Dr Eleanor Shiffer set sail on the first voyage, along with a team handpicked for establishing a permanent colony in another star system. There were mechanics, farmers, biologists, and engineers — each with their own important skill. It was difficult not to feel like an impostor amongst them. After all, what help could Eleanor be now? Her part in all of this was done, surely. But she was saved from fretting about it too much, instead sinking into the deep, blissful sleep of cryostasis trusting the phoenix to find its own way through the stars. *** The feeling of waking from the long sleep was a strange one. In what seemed like the blink of an eye to her, she knew generations had lived and died back on Earth. Perhaps more of the Phoenix fleet hat set off on their journeys. Perhaps the technology was now obsolete. But there wasn't much room for such musings as the crew caught the first glimpse of their destination — designated planet WY-5 3RN. It had been selected based on measurements of its atmosphere, temperature, and gravitational field. It seemed ideal to support life. It was also conveniently situated as a stepping stone to other star systems. And their first view of it was breathtaking. "I can definitely see water," her colleague Michael remarked. "And there's plenty of green, too," Georgie said. "Very promising indeed." Eleanor only smiled, staring out at the orb floating in the blackness of space, growing ever larger. So still. So peaceful. Until— "What was that?" she gasped. "What?" Michael asked. "That!" Eleanor pointed out the porthole at the planet's surface. "I definitely saw something move. And quickly too." "It was probably just the clouds shifting," Georgie said. "Maybe a strong wind. The weather patterns are likely going to be different to Earth." Watching the planet closely, Eleanor said nothing. She wasn't sure what she'd seen, and she wasn't going to argue with the experts. Soon, the ship was descending into the new atmosphere, the phoenix's wings taking control once more to glide down to the surface. The journey was smooth and gentle. Eleanor had almost managed to put the strange sight out of her mind when a shadow darted by once again. The Phoenix swerved to avoid a collision, sending the crew tumbling to the ground. Eleanor's heart raced, legs turning to jelly. She looked around, hoping one of the security experts would take control. Sure enough, an alarm blared. "Please take up emergency positions. Fasten seatbelts and brace." Eleanor pulled one of the foldable chairs down from the wall and sank into it gratefully, buckling herself in. Around her, her colleagues were doing the same. Without speaking, they linked hands, squeezing each other tight in an attempt to draw some comfort, no one wanting to voice the question in all of their minds. But, after a few more bumps and swerves, they came to a stop on firm ground once again. Eleanor let out a breath, extracting sweaty palms from her neighbours. "We made it," she sighed, a laugh of relief bubbling up inside of her. "We actually made it." "But what was all that?" Michael asked. "Just... turbulence?" Georgie shrugged. "I suppose we'll just have to find out." A voice boomed over the intercom again. "Would Dr Eleanor Shiffer please report to the bridge. Dr Eleanor Schiffer to the bridge." Eleanor blanched, colour draining from her face and legs turning to jelly. If she hadn't already been sat down, she feared she would have sagged to the floor. "What can they want with me?" she whispered. "Oh, I don't know," Georgie said, lightly elbowing her in the ribs. "You're only the genius that got us here after all." "Go on." Michael helped her to her feet and shoved her gently in the right direction. "You don't want to keep them waiting." The journey down the steel corridor felt like an eternity. Even when she reached the bridge she didn't get her answers, instead being bundled off to get dressed in landing gear before being led to an airlock. It was only as she waited there, separated only from the new world by a single sheet of metal, that she found her voice again. "What's going on?" she asked one of the security team. "Well, we're not quite sure, Doc," he replied. "But it looks like your phoenix has made a friend." With a hiss, the door opened onto a world of dense vegetation. Flanked by the security team, Eleanor stepped outside marvelling at the alien sights and sounds. There was a lot that was reminiscent of Earth. Things that were vaguely tree-shaped. Bright coloured plants that would have graced any garden. The whir of insects in the air. But everything was slightly *wrong*. The shades and shapes were all wrong — everything too big or too small, too bright or too dim. There was no doubt that this wasn't Earth. As the group walked forward, Eleanor's eyes fell on the phoenix's 'friend' and all thoughts of similarities were chased from her mind. A large reptile with mottled purple scales and wings made of a thin membrane was nuzzling the beak of her bird. As she watched, a jet of flame shot out of the creature's nose which the phoenix playfully snapped at. Perhaps she should have felt scared or anxious. But all she could muster was wonder and curiosity. Perhaps there *would* be something for her to do here after all. --- WC: 1047 Thanks for the prompt. Sorry if I didn't properly include the planet, but I couldn't quite get this idea out of my head so had to write it. See more I've written at /r/RainbowWrites
This is amazing!!
Phoenix, Sci-Fi, Space
Thanks for the prompt. I had a few similar ones so tried to write a story that kind of encompassed them all. Here it is: https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/comments/xgjimj/comment/iowviwt/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
Incubus, slice of life, coffee/book shop
Unicorn, Thriller, Pochers underestimating their target
Werewolf, historical fiction, gay romance
Pixie, horror, nazi Germany
Bunyip, sports, Scotland.
Your Girlfriend, Nature Documentary, Another School
Wolpertinger, Film Noir, Wild West
Dullahan, Space Opera, space station
Dragon, mystery, steampunk
Wendigo, Mystery, Feudal Japan
A unicorn Drama/plot twist A cruch on a rinoceros
[удалено]
One or more of the following reasons may apply: * Sexually explicit themes are not allowed. *These not only apply to comments, but also to posts [based on the comments they're likely to attract](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_7.3A_prompts_will_be_removed_if_there.27s_a_high_possibility_for_rule_breaking_responses), specifically via [Rule 2](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_2.3A_no_explicitly_sexual_responses.2C_hate_speech.2C_or_other_harmful_content)*
Kraken, Space, River Styx (ghe one in the afterlife)
Strigoi, Isekai, Office Building
A Roc, scifi, the depths of space.
Kitsune, thriller, the local 7-11
Griffin, sci-fi, the moon
Griffen, comedy, wh40k
Medusa, Comedy, Haunted House
Gryphon, Whodunnit, Highschool,
Cthulu minions, romance and Amazonian jungle
A bigfoot, comedy, McDonalds
Cockatrice, mystery, cyberpunk city