magic

Eccentric

/ Liz H-H / 19 Comments

Many thanks to Jenne Gray and C.E. Ayr for their photo prompt, The Unicorn Challenge (05/10/2024). No more than 250 words in length.

Hildie was at her wit’s end. Franz had always been forgetful, more interested in the mechanics of lock-work, how to build a better mousetrap, and getting just the right measurements to repair the town’s old clock tower. His work was much admired, his prices more than reasonable, so his peculiarities were forgiven by the townsfolk and accepted as the oddities of a brilliant mind.              Continue reading →

Mash Undenied

/ Liz H-H / 11 Comments
Crumbling tomb door decorated with crumbling statuary

© Ayr/Gray

From Jenne Gray and C.E. Ayr’s photo prompt, The Unicorn Challenge (04/05/2024). No more than 250 words in length.

“The band will never be the same without Roger,” moaned Cambria from her perch on the front stoop.

“We’ve been playing the same music for eons,” snapped Claudia from her always-center place. “Largely because of Roger’s abhorrence of rock music. I keep telling you! This is where the industry’s at, Babies.”              Continue reading →

Song of the Sea

/ Liz H-H / 25 Comments

© Ayr/Gray

From Jenne Gray and C.E. Ayr’s photo prompt, The Unicorn Challenge (03/24/2024). No more than 250 words in length.

“So many to choose from,” Douglass breathed, mouthpiece in one hand, carefully considering his next step. He’d waited under the dock, saving the oxygen in his scuba tank. The docks ceased their sway and rattle as the heavy footfalls of captains and crew stumbled up to the clubhouse for an exclusive marina fundraiser. They’d strung lights on boom, mast, and stays, sure that the sea gods wouldn’t rain on their parade.           Continue reading →

Microflash on Fire

/ Liz H-H / 13 Comments

cat behind a cauldron

About a year ago, these three were accepted for an anthology that disappeared in the wind. The prompt word was FIRE, the constraints to 1. Write a story (beginning + middle + end) and 2. Write the story in exactly 99 words. Creative challenge…I share to show how easy and fun it is, and that it’s a great way to warm up for longer projects. Hope you enjoy!

First Flame

Cora nestles her belly into black granite, stretching to catch the sun’s heat. Her legs scrabble amidst a low sizzle as leathery wings unfurl. A perfect pearl hardens under her curled tongue. She is scarlet, precious, and utterly alone.          Continue reading →