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AAWC Writing Camp 2016
THIS IS THE LAST CHALLENGE OF AAWC!! *cries* I’m really sad. It’s been so much fun, but I’m sure that Misty will be quite relieved once it’s over, so I’ll be happy for you, Misty! ;D
I used the word “Invisible” and included a plot twist. Unfortunately, a swan didn’t fit in anywhere in my story, so I was unable to do that…
Anyways, let’s get on to the story!
~~~~~
Always alone. Never safe. That’s been my life for as long as I could remember. Unfortunately, that’s just the way it is for outlaws. Really, though, I think outcast suits me better. My people voted me out of the throne in my kingdom, and since then, I’ve been on my own. They couldn’t accept me for who I was.
“All hail Queen Gloria in all her glory!”
I raised my head in annoyance at the sound of Edmund’s voice. Okay, so I wasn’t alone, alone. At least not with him around. We always ran into each other on the streets, since we were both outlaws and pretty much homeless.
“Oh, my apologies, your outlaw-ness. It seems I’ve offended you.” Edmund bowed dramatically before me, but I just glared at him.
“Leave me alone, Ed.” I demanded, returning my eyes to my worn out leather journal. Sometimes I wished I was invisible so he wouldn’t know where I was. Then I could escape him.
“What’s wrong, Glooooooria?” He teased, singing my name like that part in the song, “Angels We Have Heard On High.” He knew I hated it when he did that.
“Edmund, would you stop it?” I bellowed. “Just leave me alone!”
“What are you gonna do; hit me?” He inquired, clearly thinking I couldn’t do it.
“I might, if you don’t go right now!” I warned, but he didn’t move a muscle. I pursed my lips together and rose to my feet, raising my fist back and sending it flying into his stomach. He didn’t even flinch.
“Wow. That was better than I expected it to be. I expected to feel nothing, like a little tickle, but I actually felt a teeny, tiny bit of something. You’re not as weak as you look, Your Highness.” He mocked. Edmund never did believe that I was royalty and he gladly used it to make fun of me.
I picked up my journal and stomped away, ignoring Edmund’s words behind me. Someday I’ll get even with him. Someday.
Five Years Later…..
My little miracle. My perfect weapon.
I lovingly stroked my fingers across my newest creation – a machine built for torturing my worst enemies.
“Bring him.” I commanded one of my faithful servants.
Within moments, my servant entered the room, dragging Edmund in behind him.
Realization entered into Edmund’s eyes. “Gloria?” He inquired, as though not sure it was me.
“It’s been a long time.” I remarked. Motioning for my servant to place Edmund in the chair, I headed for the door.
“Wait! What’s going on? What is this thing?” Edmund questioned, sounding partly confused and partly angry.
I turned my head slowly and locked my eyes onto his and said, “Payback.”
The process was over in 2 minutes. He didn’t stop screaming for another 5. Either he was a big baby, or that machine was more painful than I thought.
I pushed the door open and entered the room where Edmund sat, breathless. Slowly, he raised his head and shouted, “Why?!”
“It’s payback for everything you’ve done to me in all the years I’ve known you! All the torture you put me through!” I shouted back.
“What are you talking about?! I never did anything like this to you!”
“No? You tortured me every day with your teasing, your mockery, the public humiliation! So I spent the last two years creating this machine to get even with you!”
“I didn’t mean to torture you!”
“Then what were you trying to do?!”
“I don’t know!”
“Yes , you do!”
“I just-”
“What?!”
“You were-”
“Stupid?”
“No!”
“Weak?”
“No!”
“Then what was it?! Why did you treat me the way you did?!”
“Because I love you!”
Everything fell silent. My heart froze and I couldn’t find a word to say. All those long years he was teasing me, mocking me, because he loved me?
“You’re lying.” I breathed, unable to believe it.
“No. I assure you, I’m not.” He promised, then continued, “I love you, Gloria. I always have.”
I felt a lump in my throat and my eyes welling up with tears. I wasn’t sure how to respond to this. Here was a man sitting before me that I hated my entire life, professing his love for me. It touched me in a way I had never experienced before in my life. I felt my heart softening toward him. Maybe it was possible……..
No. I shook away every positive feeling I had for him and replaced it with my anger and vengeance. I scowled at him and said, “It’s too bad nobody loves you.”
~~~~~
Wow. Poor Edmund. XD
Love,
~Fluffet~
Why, heeeelllooooo! Today I present to you – The World’s Hero! Honestly, a tear trickled down my cheek and I got teary like twice as I read and wrote this. I hope you enjoy! 😀
(Loren, I used 10 prompts! And Misty, I included the word “silent” and a swan 
)
My two younger sisters and I waited on the stairs for our parents and older siblings to come out from the meeting. We weren’t allowed to go inside and hear what was going on.
“It’s grownup talk,” Papa had said, “We’ll be discussing things your little ears don’t need to hear.”
So we waited, though we did so rather impatiently.
“How long has it been now?” Alisha, the youngest of us, moaned.
“About two minutes longer since you last asked me.” I replied, getting a little annoyed by how much she had asked me that same question.
“What do you suppose they’re talking about?” Britta inquired, her voice barely audible. I knew she was scared, I could see it in her big eyes. I looked at her with sympathy and said,
“I don’t know. But I’m sure everything will be fine.” I assured her, though I wasn’t sure if that was true. I was almost as scared as she was. Two months ago, things began to change. Paul, my older brother who was eighteen years old, had been leaving early each morning with a weapon and returning late each night. Myra, our older sister who was sixteen years of age, started to say in her prayers,
“And, Lord, please keep us safe.”
Mother was being curiously frugal with the money and was making sure that we had plenty of food stored up in the cellar. Father was working over time at the shipping yards and had been attending more and more meetings.
I didn’t know what was going on exactly, but I knew something definitely wasn’t right.
A group of people suddenly emerged from the closed room, their faces were solemn and full of worry, especially those of my family.
“Girls, we need to tell you something.” Papa said gravely and Britta, who was always emotional, instantly began to cry. Mama placed her hand on Britta’s knee and shushed her, though Mama’s eyes were full of tears as well.
“We have to send you away.” Papa announced, getting straight to the point, as he always did.
“What? Why?” I burst, my eyes welling up with tears.
“The world’s not safe anymore, Julie. We have to give you your best chance.” Mama explained.
“We’ll see you all again, won’t we?” Alisha inquired with a glimmer of hope.
“No, my darling. No one ever comes back if they cross over the border, what lies beyond is unknown. We have to say goodbye now.” Mama choked.
“Please, Papa, don’t send us away!” Britta cried.
“We have no choice, sweetheart. We have no choice.” Papa stated, as tears trickled down his cheeks. Mama and Papa wrapped their arms around the three of us as we all sobbed. When I looked up, I saw that even Paul and Myra were crying. I knew then that they truly did love us little ones, no matter how mean or bossy they acted. And I would miss them desperately.
“Keep going, Britta! Alisha, keep up!” I shouted as my sisters and I dashed through the village, trying to escape the monsters that were chasing us.
They were white, almost invisible, but everyone knew that they looked a lot like lizards. Giant lizards that walked on two legs and snatched up their prey with their long talons.
Faster, faster. I kept repeating that over and over to myself. I could barely see them, and they were close. Too close.
“Julie, help!” Alisha cried from behind me. I whipped around and held my lantern out so I could spot her.
“Alisha!” I shouted and flew to her side and helped her up, just in time before the monsters got hold of her.
We met up with Britta in our safe haven, where those who used to live in the village chose to live after the monsters had destroyed every last building.
“Julie, there you are!”
I spun around and saw Erica, a friend of mine, rushing toward me.
“What’s the matter?” I inquired once she reached my side.
“You have to come quickly. They’re holding a meeting at the swan’s lake.” Erica explained. My heart skipped a beat. That was never a good thing.
“We must find a way to stop them before they destroy all of us and the world, too!” Our leader, Mr. Perkins declared. His eyes lit up as he saw me arrive and he motioned for me to join him.
“I’m sure most of you know Julie already. She’s an excellent survivor and I wanted her to be with us during this meeting so I could ask her a very important question.” Mr Perkins explained, then turned to me and asked, “What do you know about these monsters?”
I froze, completely speechless. Why was he asking me to do this? He knew I wasn’t a good speaker.
“Um… Well, they’re cunning, they’re brave, and brutal. They’re relentless and….They’re hunting us.” I declared and the crowd went silent, as though they were waiting for me to say more, so I went on, “I don’t know why they’re hunting us, or even where they came from. What I do know, is that if we don’t find a safer place to live, the human race will be wiped out and all that will remain is a broken world.”
“What do you propose we do? There is no where else to go!” A man with a long beard shouted.
“What about all the children? We have to find a way to save them at least! We have to give them their best chance!” A tall, redheaded woman stated. My heart leaped in my chest and my mind traveled back in time….
“The world’s not safe anymore, Julie. We have to give you your best chance.” Mama explained.
“We’ll see you all again, won’t we?” Alisha inquired with a glimmer of hope.
“No, my darling. No one ever comes back if they cross over the border, what lies beyond is unknown. We have to say goodbye now.” Mama choked.
What lies beyond… It couldn’t be….Could it?
“Mr. Perkins, I just had a thought!” I exclaimed, making poor, old, Mr. Perkins jump up.
“Goodness sake’s, what is it, child?” He inquired.
“The mirrors. The Legend, what if it’s true? What if there are Ferrymen that guard mirrors? And what if those mirrors do lead to different worlds?” I suggested and I could tell that Mr. Perkins was in deep thought.
“I don’t know, my dear. I think all they are, are legends.” He said thoughtfully.
“My mama once said to my sisters and I, No one ever comes back if they cross over the border, what lies beyond is unknown. What if the worlds where the mirrors lead are what’s beyond?” I exclaimed, my head spinning with thoughts and excitement.
“And what if they’re not?” Mr. Perkins wondered, doubtfully.
“It’s sure worth finding out, Sir.” I determined.
“Very well. Get together a scouting party and go hunting for one of those mirrors. I leave this in your capable hands.” Mr. Perkins agreed and I wrapped my arms around him in a grateful hug. Now all I could do was hope that we could find a mirror.
I ducked underneath a low hanging branch and meandered through the forest. I caught sight of the sign my sisters and I had placed on an old oak tree several years ago. It said; Here be faeries. Oh, how we loved to believe faeries were real! If only they really were…
“Well, perhaps they are, Julie!”
“Who said that?” I inquired as I looked around, knowing that no one was around.
“Down here!” The voice called out. I looked down at the mossy ground and saw a tiny girl with blonde hair and glowing blue eyes staring up at me.
“Wh-wha-who- who are you?” I stammered, not really knowing what to say.
“I’m a faerie, you should know! But I’m sure you didn’t know that this forest truly is where faeries live.” The little faerie explained.
“You mean, faeries are real?” I asked, full of awe and wonder.
“Oh, yes! But enough of this, I’m here to help you find what you’re looking for.” The faerie said, quickly changing the subject.
“How do you know what I’m looking for?” I inquired.
“I’m small and quick as a firefly, I can sneak around and pick up on things. What you seek is real, Julie. I’ll take you to it. Follow me!” She commanded and flew off, but I ran after her, trying to keep up. She was definitely fast!
She lead me to a deep, dark part of the forest, but I could see myself running forward. This doesn’t make any sense…Wait…. It’s my reflection!
“Here we are! This is the Grand Mirror – the biggest mirror in the entire world! It circles the entire forest. All you have to do is walk through, and it will take you somewhere safe.” The Faerie explained.
“What about the Ferrymen? Are they real, too?” I inquired.
“They are, but I’ve already spoken with them. After much deliberation, they’ve finally agreed to let you all through!” She exclaimed and I nearly screamed for joy.
“Oh, thank you ever so much! I don’t know how to repay you.” I said out of utmost gratitude.
“You don’t have to repay me. Just get everyone here so you can go through and be safe.” She instructed and flew away before I could say another word.
“Mr. Perkins! Mr. Perkins! Mr. Perkins!” I shouted over and over until I spotted him sitting on a log bench, reading a book.
“Good heavens, child! What is it? Please tell me it’s not another ambush!” Mr. Perkins fretted.
“No, no, Mr. Perkins! I found it! I found a mirror and the Ferrymen agreed to let us all through!” I explained and stopped to catch my breath. Mr. Perkins looked into my eyes and I saw the tears entering his.
“My dear, girl. You’ve done it. The world needed a hero, and that’s exactly what you became. I’m so proud of you. And I know that, if they were here, your parents would be, too.” Mr. Perkins affirmed. A smile spread across my face and tears trickled down my cheeks.
“Thank you, Mr. Perkins.” I said gratefully and he gave my hand a squeeze then went to announce the good news to everyone.
Word had reached my ears several years ago that my parents had passed, but even though I didn’t have them with me, I could feel them smiling down at me. Mr. Perkins was right, they were proud of me. And knowing that made my heart soar.
~~~~~
*Sigh* It’s about time I had a story end with a happy ending XD
Go Dragons and Swans!!! 😀
Love,
~Fluffet~
Hey there! This has to be quick cause I’m doing it on my phone right now and I don’t have wifi (yikes!), but I have to get this up tonight, so here we go!
I’m using these 4 prompts
Misty, I included a variation of the word “smile”, saying “smiling” instead 😉 I also included a swan in my story
I Can Fly:
I opened my eyes, surprised to discover that I was no longer in my bed. So where was I exactly?
I stood on a dirt pathway that twisted and turned a corner, leading deeper into the forest I found myself in. Trees stood all around me and the green was unlike any green I had seen on trees before. It seemed so- magical. I looked to my right and noticed a wooden board attached to a tree. In bold, white letters it read:
HERE BE FAERIES
“That’s not how you spell fairies.” I snorted.
“Actually, you are quite wrong.” A young girl’s voice came from above, but I couldn’t see anyone.
“Who’s there?” I called, shading my eyes from the sun as I looked up at the trees.
“Who do you think?” The girl giggled.
“I don’t know! I don’t even know where I am or how I got here!” I shouted, feeling exasperated. Saying that made me realize that this was real. I was somewhere I’d never been before and I didn’t even know how I got here.
“Look, I don’t know where I am. Could you please come out and answer some of my questions?” I politely requested.
Suddenly I saw a floating blue light coming down from the tree tops. It grew larger as it approached me and I admit, I was slightly afraid. Before I knew it, a girl with luminous blue eyes was standing before me, her smile sweet and gentle. Several glowing blue butterflies fluttered by her- one she held tenderly in the palm of her hand.
“You flew here- to Pixie Hollow.” The girl informed.
“Pixie Hollow? Where’s that? Is it in England?” I inquired.
“Oh dear, no!” She chuckled, “You’re in Neverland!” She exclaimed as she twirled around in delight.
“Never heard of it. How did I get here?” I asked.
“You came here through your dream.” The girl stated and then went on to introduce herself, “Oh, I’m Carnation, by the way.”
“I’m Peter. Wait, so, I’m dreaming? Or is this real?” I inquired in wonderment.
“This is quite real, Peter. Weren’t you dreaming about flying?” She questioned.
“Sure! I’ve had dreams of flying lots of times, but this is the first time I’ve woken up away from home. It’s pretty amazing!” I exclaimed, taking in my surroundings.
“And haven’t you always wished to never grow up? To not have any rules to follow? And to be able to fly?” Carnation inquired, counting on her fingers as she listed each thing.
“Yeah, how did you know all that?” I wondered, scratching my red hair.
“I’m a fairy. I’ve been to the Mainland before, where you’re from. I just know these things. And I’m here to tell you, Peter, that now all your dreams can come true!” She explained.
“What do you mean?” I asked, not sure how this could work.
“I mean, you are free to stay here now! In Neverland, there are no rules and nobody ever grows up. Do you believe you can fly?” She inquired, a playful grin on her face.
“Sure I do!” I nodded enthusiastically. Then Carnation grew smaller until she was fairy size again and flew around me, golden dust falling over me.
“What is this?” I asked as I rubbed the dust in my fingers.
“It’s pixie dust! Now, think of a happy thought and wait to see what happens.” She instructed, smiling broadly.
Happy thought, happy thought. I thought of never growing up, of being a kid for forever, and suddenly I felt my feet lift off the ground.
“I can fly! I’m flying!” I exclaimed.
“You’re doing great!” Carnation applauded as she watched me soaring through the night sky. It was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. The wind in my hair, the sense of freedom, how light and carefree I felt. The sight below me was astonishing- Neverland was wonderful. I saw a mermaid lagoon, a cavern that looked like a skull, Indian territory, open sea and pirate ships. What more could a boy ask for? This place was my new home, I knew that much.
Jingle, jingle!
What was that?
Jingle, jingle!
There it was again! I paused in the air and listened closely.
Jingle, jingle!
It sounded like bells… I took off toward the direction of the sound until I came to the shore. I spotted a small fairy with blonde hair tied up in a bun and clothed in a green dress with her foot caught under a large rock.
“Hey there, lemme help you with that.” I offered. I tried lifting it, but it was too heavy.
“Look, human, find some lost things on the shore that you can use to split or pry up the rock so I can get out.” The fairy ordered, seeming annoyed.
“Lost things?” I repeated.
“Yeah, you know, the stuff that washes up from the mainland.” She answered, as though it were obvious. I searched around and saw many random items. I found silverware, springs, a portrait of a swan, a hairbrush, but the one thing I thought could help me most was a bronze pan.
I walked back over to the fairy and slid the handle of the pan underneath the rock and pressed down with all my might. The rock lifted just enough for the fairy to fly free.
“Wow, thanks! You should be a tinker!” The fairy said gratefully.
“What’s your name?” I asked her.
“I’m Tinkerbell, who are you? What are you doing in Neverland?” She inquired.
“I’m Peter. I flew here.” I replied.
“Peter, huh? Well, as my rescuer, I hereby dub you… Peter Pan! In honor of the pan you used to free me!” Tinkerbell issued, proud of her name idea.
“Peter Pan, huh? I like it!” I approved, crossing my arms across my chest in pride.
“Great! Hey! Why don’t I give you a tour of Neverland? I could show you Mermaid Lagoon, Skull Rock, introduce you to Tiger Lily, you’d LOVE her, and- oh! We’ll have to be careful of Captain Hook and his scurvy crew. He doesn’t like any of us.” Tinkerbell suggested and I gladly took her up on her offer. I liked Tinkerbell and it was no surprise to me that we became best friends.
~~~~~~
“Peter!” I called out his name in the silence, like he would actually hear, like he would actually care. I was his friend first. I told him everything. I taught him how to fly. I thought we would be great friends. Then he had to go and meet Tinkerbell. The two of them had become best friends and partners- they were completely inseparable. You hardly heard one name without the other, since they were the heroes now. Always fighting off Captain Hook and his crew.
Eventually, everyone in Pixie Hollow turned against me, because they always said I was jealous of Tink. So, I left Pixie Hollow for good and I shoved all those bad memories with Pan, as he was mostly now called, into a box, deep down inside myself that I would never open up again.
“Goodbye, Peter Pan. Goodbye, Pixie Hollow.”
~~~~~
Awww. Poor Carnation. I just have to say, I had a BLAST writing this story! I think it’s one of my facorites! 😀
I also used this prompt- it helped me get the story going
Love,
~Fluffet~
P.S. I’ll reply to comments as soon as I have wifi again!
Hi everyone! I’m here again with my second story for CWWC and my fifth for AAWC! I had fun with this one 😀
TEAM DRAGONS IS IN SECOND PLACE!!! GO GO GO!!! All prompts, folks! 😀
And Team Swan is in the LEAD!! KEEP GOING!! 😀
Here are the prompts for CWWC:
And Misty, I included the word “fade” and also a swan
~~~~~
Memories, Memories:
The school bell had rang 45 minutes ago and still I remained unmoved at my desk. My teacher, Mrs. Grady had asked how I was before she left, but I just told her I was fine and needed to think for a bit.
For as long as I could remember, I had always felt like something in my life was missing. Granted, I had a wonderful, loving family, tons of friends, and pure joy followed me just about everywhere I went. Everywhere, but my classroom. Each time I stepped in the room all my joy faded away from me and I felt – empty.
“I need a hero.” I whispered to myself. I was so desperate to be rescued from this emptiness that I actually said I wanted a hero. That’s stupid. I’m 16, I know that heroes aren’t real.
I stepped out of my seat and headed out of the classroom. Instantly, the joy came back and I forgot all about my problems.
“Iris, where have you been? You’re over an hour late home from school!” My mom fussed as soon as I entered the door.
“I-I don’t know. I’m fine, though.” I assured her with a smile. Mom glanced at Dad who was standing close behind her, his arms crossed tightly across his chest.
“Did you have a good day at school, Swan?” He inquired with an inquisitive brow. Swan was my nickname he gave me when I was little because I was always dancing around the house, flowing and gliding gracefully like a swan. Plus I had an obsession with Swan Lake, so it seemed to fit. My mind drew a blank. I couldn’t remember anything about school.
“I don’t know. I can’t remember…” I said slowly, trying my hardest to remember what I did that day. Dad muttered something to mom, trying to hide it from me. This wasn’t like my parents. They seemed so disturbed, this hardly ever happened. Everything was only ever perfect.
Mom disappeared into the dark hall and I saw her enter her bedroom. Something wasn’t right here….
I woke up in the middle of the night. It was very quiet and I knew it must have been very late. I felt an urge, almost a calling, to go downstairs. I jumped out of my bed and tiptoed down the creaking staircase. I noticed that the storage door under the staircase was open, so I went to close it. But just as I was about to, I saw a large white box on the floor that said; “BAD MEMORIES. DO NOT OPEN.”
Suddenly I felt that emptiness again. That terrible, lonely, heartache. I knelt down and placed my hands on the box before me. Something inside told me that this is what I needed to rid me of this emptiness.
I lifted the lid and saw hundreds of black papers with words in white filling each sheet. Carefully, I lifted one out of the box and began to read:
March 30th, 2008
I watched as my parents were hit by a car, just outside my school. I ran to them, but the officers wouldn’t let me see them.
“Please, you have to let me see them! They’re my parents!” I cried. One of the officers knelt down and placed his strong hands on my shoulders.
“What’s your name, sweetie?” He asked gently.
“Iris. Iris O’Brian.” I answered as I wiped away a tear.
“Iris! Th-that’s my name!” I gasped and continued reading;
“Iris, I’m sorry, but there’s nothing we can do. Your parents died. Seeing them would only make it harder for you.” He explained and gave me a comforting hug. My heart broke and my throat ached from crying.
“Sir, we found this in the trunk.” Another police officer came over, carrying a bag with a birthday card and a new doll, just like the one I’d been wanting for ages.
“Those are for me. It’s my birthday today.” I sobbed. The officer handed me the doll and I held her close to my chest, letting tears pour onto her silky hair.
I paused again to check the date on the paper. “March 30th, 2008. My 8th birthday…” I said with a shaky breath. This couldn’t be possible, but I believed this girl was me. The facts were accurate. But everything happening…. That never happened…
“Iris, what are you doing?” My dad inquired as he and my mom entered the room.
“Mom, Dad, what is this? This girl, her name is Iris and she has the same birthday as me. But here it says that her parents died…. I don’t understand…” I trailed off, hoping they would explain. Mom and Dad looked at each other sadly and sighed as they sat on the floor beside me.
“Iris, that girl is you.” Mom stated.
“Why don’t I remember any of this?” I inquired.
“Because we made you forget.” Dad replied, his eyes full of shame.
“What? Y-you took my memories?” I asked in shock, tears filling my eyes.
“Yes. I’m the officer on the page who spoke with you and hugged you. I felt an attachment to you and your mother and I adopted you. Months passed on and you never smiled. You never spoke. You would stay alone in your room most of the day and sometimes we would hear you crying at night.” Dad began, and Mom continued, “So we went to see some scientists and they created a machine that could take away all of your bad memories so you could be happy. We used it on you then and we’ve been using it on you ever since because we’ve been too afraid of you returning to how you were. We only ever wanted you to be happy.”
“You needed a hero, Iris. So that’s what we became. Your heroes.” Dad finished, his hand rested on my shoulder.
I let tears stream down my cheeks as I said, “You may have taken away the memories, but the feeling was still always there. That painful emptiness that haunted me for years. If you want me to be truly happy and if you really want to be my heroes, please return my memories. Return them so I can feel whole again.”
“Of course. If that’s what you truly want.” Mom agreed and pulled me into a warm, loving hug, Dad wrapping his arms over us. At last, I could finally feel complete. I knew then that heroes are real. And I had two of them in my life who I was proud to call; Mom and Dad.
~~~~~
I hope you enjoyed! Feedback always appreciated
Who are the heroes in your life?
Love,
~Fluffet~
Hi everyone! I’m here with my next AAWC entry!
And, by the way, GO TEAM SWAN!!! WE ARE WINNING!!!! 😀
Misty, I included a swan in my story
~~~~~
I sat on the ground and let out a hiss as I took my hands off of the broomstick. Slowly, I turned them over and grimaced as I saw them. They were raw and bloody. I swept the back of my hand across my forehead, wiping away the sweat and then looked up at the sun. I had been sweeping for three hours. It was completely unbelievable how dirty the orphanage got in such a short time. I had just swept a few days ago and now here I was at it again.
Hesitantly, I picked up the broom and went to put it away so I could wash up. As I dipped my hands into the basin, I winced at the sting. I bit my lip, trying not to cry. It wasn’t just the pain of my hands that hurt, but everything inside me. Every day for my entire life, I had been doing chores here from sunup to sundown. Nobody here liked me, but worse, nobody loved me. I was like the black sheep of the flock, different from everybody else. I was picked on, teased, and bullied every single day. I don’t know how I got on, but somehow I managed to get through the long, hard days.
After I had eaten my bowl of beans, I trudged up the stairs until I reached the third floor. I creaked the door open, slipped off my shoes, and wandered over to the window. This was my quiet, peaceful time. Away from chores, away from people, away from troubles.
I gazed up into the night sky, the stars twinkling at me. Then I saw my wishing star. I grinned and folded my hands as I stared at it and whispered:
“Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight. I wish I may, I wish I might, have the wish, I wish tonight. I wish for a new, happy life, surrounded by people who love me.”
I closed my eyes and let a few tears trickle down my cheeks. Why had I been given this life? Why was I treated so poorly? Why were my parents taken away from me?
Thoughts like those floated through my mind and I cried for a long while. I wiped my tears away and looked back at the stars, searching for new constellations. There was the Big Dipper, Ursa Minor, and then I saw one that looked a bit like a swan, soaring through the night sky. I wish I could fly away from here.
After a while, my sleepiness caught up with me and I sauntered over to my make-shift bed on the floor. Letting out a large yawn, I closed my eyes and fell asleep. In my dreams I flew away and went on a grand adventure, making friends and finding a loving family on the way. It was the best dream I ever had, because it all felt so real.
When I woke up in the morning I heaved a sigh. I wish that dream would come true.
~~~~~
ANOTHER SAD STORY!!!! AGH!!!! I’M TERRIBLE!!! XD
Love,
~Fluffet~
Whew! This post is late! I’ve been so busy and suddenly it was Thursday and I’m like – okay, I need to write my AAWC story! 😛
Just an FYI that I used this prompt for this story 😉
And, Misty, I did include “Broken” (of course XD ) and a swan
~~~~~
Have you ever wondered what causes fissures, cracks in the pavement, or even how The Grand Canyon was made? Well, let me tell you, it’s not at all what you think. I’m here to tell you the story of how The Grand Canyon was made – the story of how a broken heart could cause so much damage to the world, and yet turn out to be so remarkable hundreds of years later….
Judy and Nigel ambled arm in arm through the woods together, laughing and chatting along. Neither of them ever grew tired of each other’s company. They were a perfect pair and practically inseparable.
As they were strolling past the lake where the swans glided gracefully on the water, they noticed a young woman sobbing by an oak tree. They both knew the look on her face, they’d seen it several times before. It was the look of a broken heart. Judy and Nigel glanced at each other with pity and walked along, not wishing to disturb the poor girl.
“I’m so glad we haven’t had any fights, Nigel.” Judy said gratefully.
“I am, too.” Nigel agreed, patting her hand which was looped through his arm.
“We’re so lucky to have each other. And I know we always will.” Judy said with a smile. Nigel smiled forcefully at her, trying to hide his sadness and uncertainty. He felt in his heart that something was going to come between them and that somehow, they never would see one another again.
The months passed and nothing had interfered with their lives, so Nigel’s worry fled from him and he and Judy were now making preparations for their wedding. It was one bit of joy during the hard times of the war.
“Oh, we’d better invite my Aunt and Uncle Phillips and of course, Louisa and George must come, as well. Do you think I’ve forgotten anyone?” Judy asked her husband to be.
Nigel looked up from his paper and smiled. “No, I don’t think you have.” He confirmed. Suddenly the fear entered into him again. The same feeling he had all those months ago. His eyes saddened and his heartbeat quickened. He wasn’t sure what was happening. Judy noticed the look in his eye as he stared at her. She raised her eyebrow and inquired, “Nigel, what’s wrong?”
“I don’t know exactly.” He replied, his face expressing sheer terror. Judy walked around the table and sat beside him, laying her hand on his shoulder. Suddenly a horn bellowed so loud it made the two of them jump and Judy shrieked. Without saying a word, they both flew downstairs and out onto Main Street where they saw strong, threatening men driving dozens of prison wagons into town, whipping their horses along.
The men stopped driving once they had all entered into town and they jumped off the wagons yelling out orders and pulling and shoving all the men into the wagons. The women screamed and the men shouted for help, but there was nothing to be done.
The strongest looking man made his way over to Judy and Nigel and grabbed his arm, but Judy shouted,
“Wait! What are you doing with them?”
“It’s orders, Missy! All men from every town are called to serve in the war and if they refuse, they be hung!” The man barked back. Judy gasped and as the man started pulling Nigel away, she grabbed hold of his other arm, trying to keep him with her.
“Nigel! Don’t go! Please! Stay with me!” She cried. Nigel looked at his bride-to-be with tears in his eyes. He shut them tight, remembering and treasuring each wonderful moment they had spent together. Then he opened them and said, more sincerely and lovingly than he ever had before,
“I love you.”
Tears gushed out of Judy’s eyes and she held onto his hand until she no longer could. Those were the last words she ever heard from Nigel, and the last time she ever saw him.
Many hearts were broken that harrowing day, but none more so than those of Nigel and Judy whose love was greater than all the stars in the night sky.
And that heartbreak that occurred that day is exactly what caused The Grand Canyon to form. I guarantee that now you have heard this tale, every time you hear about or see The Grand Canyon, you will remember dear Judy and Nigel – the pair with the perfect love.
THE END
~~~~~
Okay, why do I write such tragic things? XD
Well, I hope you liked it and, as always, I’d love some feedback!
Love,
~Fluffet~
Hey ho! (I almost started singing one of Merry and Pippin’s very entertaining songs) Today I bring to you my second story for AAWC! And I included a swan, once again, Misty
Before we go on, let me just say – GO TEAM SWAN!!! I BELIEVE IN US!!!! XD
Now let’s get on with the story, shall we? XD
~~~~~
I sat at the edge of the lake, letting my feet soak in the water. Gazing at the glistening lake, I let a tear trickle down my cheek. Gone. They’re all gone. A sob escaped my lips and I had no control over the tears. The ache was so strong that I hugged myself and bent over, allowing the overflowing tears to fall into the lake, creating ripples on the water.
“They were wonderful, weren’t they?” A voice came from behind me and I forced myself to look back and see who it was. A young boy around my age stood there, his eyes red and puffy, as though he had been crying, too. I closed my eyes and nodded my head, unable to speak a word.
He came closer and sat down beside me, placing his hand on my shoulder as I cried.
“I came here every day to visit with the swans. They brought hope and joy to the whole valley. And they were always there to help us and save us from the beasts. I can’t believe someone came and-” The boy paused, not even able to say those two horrible words himself. I sniffed and wiped away some tears as I lifted my head up.
“Which one was your favorite?” I inquired, my voice cracking.
“I always liked the one with the few blue feathers. He always did silly things.” The boy stated, trying to smile. I chuckled.
“He was my favorite, too.” I informed and the tears poured out again. The boy reached into his pocket and tapped my arm. I looked at him, wondering what he wanted.
“This is for you.” He offered and I took the photograph from him and smiled as tears streamed down my cheeks. It was a photograph of Blue, as I had dubbed him, splashing around in the water. I smiled gratefully at him and whispered, “Thank you.” He smiled back at me and went on his way. I wish I could have told him how much it meant to me, but I think he knew already. I would always treasure that photograph, and I’d always remember that kind boy.
~~~~~
I used a writing prompt that said to write the saddest scene you can think of between a boy and a girl, except this is the first time they ever met. I had tried this prompt once before and it didn’t turn out the way I’d hoped. I feel much more pleased with this one
Have a great day!
Love,
~Fluffet~
HIIII! I’m SO excited because AAWC HAS BEGUN!!! YAY!!! You’ll be seeing a lot of stories this month ;D
Oh, and Misty, I used a swan in my story and title (as you already can see XD )
Now, introducing…
The Silver Swan
James paced the floor, pausing every six seconds when he had an idea and then would shake his head and continue pacing.
“Calm down, James.” Malcolm urged, “You’re giving me a headache.”
James plopped on the velvet sofa and huffed. The entire kingdom had their mind on the war between man and beast. James, however, had his mind on an entirely different matter.
“I can’t stop thinking about her.” He whispered. Malcolm raised his eyebrow and set his book down.
“Is there something you need to tell me, James?” He inquired. Being James’ best friend, he felt he was entitled to know absolutely everything that was going on in his life and – usually – James was happy to share.
“Last week I saw a beautiful young maiden in the forest. Her dark hair blew in front of her face and she stared at me with her sad eyes. I was going to speak to her when suddenly a giant winged creature swooped down from above and carried her off into the sunset. Ever since then I haven’t been able to stop thinking about her. I believe she may be in trouble.” James explained, his eyes full of worry. Malcolm grinned and said, “James, I know exactly who it is you saw.”
“You do? Who is she?” James pressed.
“She’s known as the Silver Swan. She goes down to the lake in the forest every day.” Malcolm informed.
“Why?” James inquired.
“No one knows. You can try asking her yourself. She lives in the Holland Tower in the back of the forest.” Said Malcolm. James immediately rose from his seat and headed out the door. He didn’t want to waste a single moment. If she was in trouble, he was going to save her.
Riding through the forest on his mighty steed, James practically flew to the Holland Tower. As he approached it, he noticed how solemn it looked. So old, so dark. Something wasn’t right there. Swiftly he dismounted his horse and ran to the tower. He looked around, but no door was in sight. He would have to climb. He pushed back his crimson cape and grasped the creases between the bricks, hoisting himself upward. Quickly he climbed, for fear that he would be too late to save The Silver Swan.
At last he reached the top window and climbed through, leaving him standing in a dreary room. He peered through the darkness and caught sight of the young maiden he had seen in the forest, suppressed in the shadows beside a golden mirror.
James took off his hat and held it tightly in his hands as he approached her.
“Who are you?” A gentle almost inaudible voice emerged from the maiden.
“I have come to find out who you are. And to determine that you are safe.” James replied. They looked into one another’s eyes for a few silent moments. The young maiden was so touched by this man’s concern that it made her heart soar in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time. At length she said,
“I am Arella, The Silver Swan.”
“Y-yes. So I heard.” James stated. “I am James, Guard of the Citadel.” He introduced with a bow.
“And what more information do you seek, Sir James?” Arella inquired.
“I wish, if it pleases you, to know more about you. Why do you live in a tower with no doors? Why do you hide away in the rear of the forest? And why do you go to the lake every day?” James asked respectfully. Arella lifted her head and dropped it again as she let out a soft sigh. She stepped into the light and James noticed for the first time that she had long silver wings – like that of a swan’s – only much bigger. He remained silent, however and waited for her to speak. She wandered to the window and gazed out – her eyes mournful.
“Many years ago, a castle stood strong right over there.” Arella began, pointing her finger to a demolished part of land, “A wonderful king and queen lived there and ruled their kingdom with kindness and generosity. Until one day, the queen gave birth to a baby girl. They loved her and they cherished her, but as their daughter grew older, she became different. She wasn’t like the other young boys and girls in the land, and the king and queen grew fearful. They became so preoccupied with protecting their name, their status, that they sided with the people, who also were fearful of the princess, and they did something they would later come to regret.” She paused, her eyes looking down at the window’s ledge.
“What did they do?” James urged. Without looking up she said, “They banished her.” Arella turned away and continued, “The princess always remembered this. She became depressed and insecure about herself, so she stayed in hiding, keeping away from anyone and everyone. Until she heard about the attack on the kingdom. She rushed back home, but by then it was too late. Everything was gone. Her parents, the kingdom, everything but this tower was destroyed. She forgave her parents for their wrongdoings and she settled down in the tower, to keep them close to her heart.” Arella finished, now standing in front of the mirror. James shook his head in disappointment and walked over to her.
“Arella, I am deeply sorry for all you have been through.” He said sincerely. Arella looked at him with tears in her eyes. She took a deep breath in and said, “And to answer your other question; I go to the lake every day to look at my reflection. To remind myself that not only am I human, but a swan. I belong there as well, in the forest and the sparkling waters. That’s where I feel free and beautiful. And when I return here, I look into the mirror. Where I see the human who could have been a princess, kind and generous just as her parents once were. But alas, I remain here, to avoid being seen by anyone so that they won’t ever fear me.”
“I can’t understand how anyone could fear you. Arella, you are beautiful – inside and out. Whoever can’t see that is clearly out of their mind. You’re a special young girl and you were made different for a purpose. That I truly believe.” James inspirited her. For the first time in years, a genuine smile spread across Arella’s face. Her one dream had come true at last – to be loved and happy again.
*****
So, what did you all think? I’d love to know!
Love,
~Fluffet~
I'm a crazy writer, fangirl, donut-loving teen with an obsession for BB-8. I hope you stay and visit a while :) Learn more about me by clicking the picture above!
