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[WP] You are assigned to the position of head curator of the Obscurum Arcana, a vault, built to contain various cursed, enchanted or otherwise magical items, many malevolent in purpose, others simply dangerous through incompetence. It is now your job to catalogue, categorise and document artefacts.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Two!?\"\n\nThe cusp of a smile faded into a stern expression, or at least some pretense of one. Malik crossed his arms as he nodded in response to Dwal. \n\n\"Precisely,\" Malik said, \"Out of the eleven thousand five hundred and sixty two artefacts residing inside the Obscurum Arcana, exactly two have been fully catalogued.\"\n\n\"But...\" Dwal stuttered, at a loss for words, \"This vault has been around for three hundred years! Twenty of the academy's Arch Glyphs have served! The twenty greatest minds can't possibly have spent three hundred years and walked away with so little accomplished.\"\n\nMalik turned a notch unpleased. \"One hundred\", he said. \"One hundred years to build a system that kept these miserable gimmicks sealed and seperated. One hundred years to build up the magic to even allow us to touch them. And finally, one hundred years before someone could put ink to pen, and thoughts to words about what lies here.\"\n\nMalik leaned in, the hint of some elemental force weighing in behind him, exerting itself over Dwal. A cheap trick from the academy used to haze in the juniors. Yet no amount of prior foresight and knowledge helped control the shivers of fear across Dwal's nerves, not when the sheer density of his elemental presence trumped anything Dwal had ever experienced. \n\n\"What do you think we keep here child?\" Malik said, \"Toys? Trophies? Some two bit dark magister's prized collection? We did not build Obscurum Arcana fool. This is not a vault where we store what we found, this is a box we put around what was already here.\"\n\nThe thoughts of it took a handful of seconds to register before Dwal tried to mouth off whatever he was thinking. Words failed him. \n\nArriving at the intended effect, Malik turned about, beckoning for Dwal to follow him down the corridor. The air of intimidation around the man was gone, but thoroughly replaced by an eerie sensation these corridor walls seemed to have gained. \n\n\"The Arch Glyphs that left here were much like yourself when they arrived\", Malik said, \"Good students, though some a bit too wildly imaginative. None of them began here as an Arch Glyph, but all twenty who left used their own findings to become what you remember them as. The greatest minds of our modern principles.\"\n\nMalik stopped, causing Dwal to accidentally trail two steps ahead of him before he realized they'd arrived. Though nothing looked different, they were still down another same stretch of corridor as when they'd begun.\n\nDwal figured there was a hidden door in the walls, or perhaps the floors and ceiling. But when a quick wisp of some enchanted words escaped Malik's mouth the walls merely collapsed, the ground rose to meet the ceiling and reality seemed to contort in some unfathomable manner. \n\nAt the end of it there was him and Malik, standing, or so he thought, in a void. Something un-seeable orbited around them, or at least seemed to. It was all wrong to Dwal's senses, nothing seemed perceivable in the conventional manner. How'd he even see Malik's face where there seemed to be no light? \n\n\"Welcome to the folds of Obscurum Arcana, we always welcome our future Arch Glyphs to their ten year stay with a small orientation.\" Malik said, \"One minute within the influence of an artefact we've deemed safe enough. The fastest way to truly understand the incomprehensible is to experience it.\"\n\n\"Safe enough?\" Dwal echoed, the only words that seemed to have stuck to him. \n\n\"Ten year terms, and three hundred years but only twenty Arch Glyphs returned to the academy.\" Malik said, \"Eight encountered something we may never be able to explain and two...well...it was not safe enough.\"\n\n\"Welcome to Obscurum Arcana child,\" Malik said, \"Good luck.\"\n\nDwal blinked uncontrollably and the world shifted yet again. Malik had vanished, solid footing once again lay beneath his feet, and in front of him under a pale yellow light...there was a tree."
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[WP] when you move through the night, keep out of sight. Listen for the snow crunching behind you. If you ever turn to see, what a sight it would be. To see the snow maidens right behind you. Frosted finger tips, blue and perfect lips. Be warned, do not let them touch you.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\\[Poem\\]\n\nMoving slowly, out of sight / Don't let them know you're there.\n\nEver onward, through the night / Don't show them that you're scared.\n\n​\n\nA noise, now, you must hark / Just listen, don't turn 'round!\n\nA sound behind you in the dark / Keep going, don't slow down!\n\n​\n\nSnow maidens walk behind you now / You must stay out their reach.\n\nBlue lips gave a solemn vow / A lesson, soon they'll teach.\n\n​\n\nFor those who dare to enter here / And maiden's kiss receive,\n\nThen they'll know only fear / And so they'll never leave.\n\n\\--------------\n\nIf you liked this, check out r/WannaWriteSometimes for more of my stories."
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[WP] A stray puppy somehow sneaks into a Black Site
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
" In a remote tract of government-owned land in Wyoming, there’s an installation designated “PROJECT MEADOWLARK RESEARCH AND TESTING SITE A.” Meadowlark has never been referred to by name, at least not since the late 1960’s when a construction company operating under the most confining non-disclosure agreement broke ground. The governing body responsible for Meadowlark doesn’t have an official designation, and even the senators who sat on the committee which funded the site indefinitely are deceased. Needless to say, the Meadowlark site doesn’t officially exist. Every foot of the site is monitored by encrypted, closed-circuit monitoring, infrared scanning, seismic sensors, and a panoply of other detecting technology that the private sector won’t independently develop for another 30 years. Armed guards are able to respond to any alarm in under 95 seconds.\n\nHowever, this response requires the sensors to actually trip an alarm…\n\nThe first failure of the security systems occurred at 7:42 a.m. on >!\\[REDACTED\\]!<, when ground sensors failed to detect a seven-pound object walking onto the restricted area. The previous spring had been exceptionally verdant, and the fall had left an unprecedented amount of leaf-debris on the forest floor, severely dampening the sensitivity of the seismic devices. It didn’t help that the sensors were calibrated to detect bipedal walking and running above 90 pounds.\n\nThe second failure of security occurred at 7:47 a.m., when a cicada husk interfered with an infrared sensor’s ability to detect a beam break. Had the cicada husk not been there, the beam still wouldn’t have detected the movement due to a one-in-ten-million mutation of a hair follicle which refracted that specific wavelength of infrared in such a way that the sensor wouldn’t have detected it anyway. \n\nThe third failure of security occurred at 7:49 a.m. when >!\\[REDACTED\\]!<.\n\nBut the breach was detected at 7:51 a.m., by chance, when a CCTV monitor was manually switched. A security guard named Holland Coates stared in disbelief as a little floof of black fur waddled through Sector 17-R, tripped over its own feet, rolled to a sitting position, and bit its backside. As the puppy lolled its head around, looking at the forest, a phrase was spoken over the radio, and the alarm was triggered. Project: Meadowlark had been breached at 7:51:41 a.m. on >!\\[REDACTED\\]!<—numerous layers of intentionally redundant security had failed to detect a ten-month-old stray puppy from wandering into one of the most closely-guarded secrets in the entire continental United States (we’re not going to get into Ice Station MOLASSES in Alaska).\n\nHolland Coates held no official rank. He was once a corporal in the Marines, working as an MP at a detention center, but that was a lifetime ago (official records state that CPL Coates was killed in the line of duty when a fire occurred at the detention center; his next-of-kin has no idea he’s still alive, and never will). When he pressed the push-to-talk button on his radio, he knew that the installation was going to go into an aggressive response phase, and an extended lockdown that would last fourteen days—all R&R requests (which require 18 months of advance request before approval) would be cancelled, and the oversight agency might even send evaluators to scrutinize every measure of alarm that had failed up to this point. When a deer or feral pig wandered onto the site, they were notified immediately by the weight and IR sensors, and could track its path on those systems, and observe it via CCTV. No living organism should be able to ingress without notifying every level of security at the facility. \n\nWithin 40 seconds, pneumatic trapdoors had opened in the sectors surrounding 17-R, and response teams we deployed to intercept the “intruder.” After a thorough search of all assessed sectors of intrusion, the puppy was relocated to >!\\[REDACTED\\]!<, where it lives to this day."
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[WP]One day, Earth suddenly gets a new moon. It's MUCH closer than the one we already have, and nobody seems to know how it got there. The strange part about it is that it looks exactly like earth.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I always wanted to be a superhero or Indiana Jones or even a teenage mutant ninja turtle (Leonardo in particular) but at a certain point in my adolescence I came to the conclusion that all children do: life is not a movie. Years of trying and failing to will my imagination into reality left me with the cold bitterness that come upon you as you grow up. There are no ghosts to scare you, no aliens to abduct you, and no radioactive spiders to bite you and give you super powers. But today is different, today something happened that would only happen if we were really a part of living fiction. When I woke up this morning and made my way outside to my car I felt an odd sensation that caused me to look up. In the sky above me where there was once an azure canvas of emptiness there now hangs a new planet. \n\nI sat down on the driveway, never moving my head from its upward tilt. I felt a wave of dizziness come over me, my anxiety was rising. What was I looking at? Unreality washed over me and I felt myself begin to fade out. The feeling was what people with epilepsy call an 'aura' which generally means a seizure is about to happen. My body felt heavy, everything began to sound as if it were far away and blackness began to creep into the corners of my vision. It took all the resolve I had to pull myself back from the brink. I snapped my head back down, looked at the ground beneath me and concentrated on my breathing. \n\n\"This cant be real\" I thought, \"I must be dreaming.\" I always heard that rationale in movies. The person experiences something out of this world and says to themselves \"I must be dreaming\" as if anyone could even have that intense of a dream. Nonetheless I reiterated that thought in my head a couple dozen times, closed my eyes and took a long slow inhale. I slowly tilted my head back up and re-opened my eyes, it was still there. An impossibly large planet that (now that I had time to collect my thoughts) looked exactly like earth. I mouthed the word 'impossible' hoping that it would give me some kind of assurance but no calming feelings were to be had on this day. \n\nA shriek in the distance caused me to tear away from the thing and look for the source of the noise. Down the street about 4 houses down I saw a woman clutching a man and sobbing, they were both looking up. That's when I took notice that most all of my neighbors were outside their homes or on the street and they were all looking up. I heard one exclaim how it hadn't been there not even five minutes ago. The words \"thin air\" came to mind as I began to stand up on wobbly knees. I walked over to the nearest human being, my neighbor Carl who even though the street was crowded was standing wearing only his boxer-briefs. \n\n\"Carl, what the hell is going on?\" I yelled as I walked towards him. He slowly brought his head down, his eyes coming down last. He responded to me but his gaze kept averting back up towards the thing. \n\n\"I have no idea, I was just getting out of the shower when my kids yelled for me to get outside , that it was an emergency.\" His voice sounded soft and mono toned as if he was in a trance. It was the sound of a man trying to wrap his head around the impossible. \n\n\"Do you know when it got here?\" I asked, not entirely sure if I'd even get an answer back. \n\n\"No, well not really. I let my dog out this morning and didn't see it, so unless I wasn't paying attention...\" He trailed off still in a daze. It must have just appeared suddenly in the last few minutes because there's no way you could miss it. The planet took up over a third of the sky and looked so large that you could clearly see...the breath left my body. I began to feel faint again. I took a long hard blink and strained my eyes, pointing right at me was the Great Pyramid of Giza.\n\nI had always heard the story that astronauts could see it from space but I never really believed it. Sure enough though there it was, all 4 sides slanting up towards me. I looked back down towards Carl but he was gone, likely went back to check on his kids I thought. I looked around and most of my neighbors were still standing outside but some had left and others were getting into their cars. I felt the cool tingle of panic begin to build up in the back of my neck. Should I go somewhere? Do something? What was there to do?\n\nI walked back to my house and did the only thing my rational mind could comprehend, I went inside and to my wet bar. I opened the lower cabinet and pulled out a bottle of Glenlivet and grabbed a tumbler. I filled it half-way, stopped then proceeded to fill the rest of the glass to the top. I lifted it to my lips and without tasting or thinking took two large gulps of the brown malt. It was medicine. \n\nAs I walked towards the living room I past the bay windows and caught another glimpse of the great blue/green sphere my mind began to wander. What was this thing? Was it an alternate earth or some rogue planet that also had a giant pyramid? No, it was definitely earth, looking out my window I could see the familiar just and curves of the landmasses that surrounded the Red Sea. I began to feel unsettled, I looked away and grabbed for my TV remote. I took another gulp of whiskey, the first two were just started to wrap me up in a warm blanket and thought more about what all this meant. \n\nSo there is a duplicate Earth, floating less than 200000 miles above me. Was this a science experiment gone wrong? Was it the intervention of aliens or God? Maybe it was a massive illusion or group hallucination. The possibilities were endless. As I looked down at my half empty glass of mash I couldn't help a smile start to form on my face. A giddiness began to grow inside me as I began to feel like a child again. This is something that happens in the movies I thought, this doesn't happen in real life. Maybe I was in a movie, maybe I died in my sleep the night before and now was living through a fantasy scenario I could never have dreamed of. \n\nI settled into my couch and took another swig. If there was a duplicate earth orbiting our own then maybe anything was possible, maybe even super powers or zombies or time travel. Who knows how far reality has shifted, it was a brave new world- some pun intended. \n\nI burst out in a loud gleeful chuckle. Maybe it was the whiskey, or the mental imbalance that was forming in my brain but the whole thing was beginning to seem very silly. I turned on the TV and saw the podium of the president of the united states, no doubt she was getting ready to make some kind of announcement. Finishing the last of my drink I began to relax a bit. Things might be okay, this may be the end of all things or the beginning of something new and wonderful. Either way for the first time in a long time I was excited."
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[WP] A boy is kidnapped by the Demon King. The King does not torture the boy but begs and pleads for the boy to become their friend.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"His cloak swung around wildly as he paced and waited for his soldiers to bring him the human. He told them any creature. Would it be an old man? What if he had a heart attack at the very sight of a demon? What if it was a girl? Would she scream and cry? What if it was a religious fanatic? Would they curse him in the Lord’s name and start praying, or bring out a cup of holy water? \n\n\nHe could hear distant doors being opened and shut. Prepare the room and make it as comfortable to a human as possible, he had said. What if the human was unsettled by the room or something in it? \n\n\nThe time arrived for the Demon King, in all his awfulness and power, to go into the dungeons and befriend the human. He so desperately needed a friend. Every one of his henchmen’s life could be instantly ended by him, and he paid them. They claimed to be loyal everlastingly, but he knew that they only served out of fear, and need for support. He understood, as he would do the same. But he needed a friend; one that wasn’t being paid or was afraid of him. \n\n\nAnd so, with his most “loyal” and trained guard following him, he went into the transformed dungeon room. It was dark except for a lantern that lit the inside of the room, the only lit one in the empty dungeon. He entered the room and laid eyes on his victim. The victim’s eyes, cold with a sense of annoyance, looked back judgmentally at him. “Please, be my friend. I’m so lonely here. I’d assign you the best bodyguards in all of Hell, and give you the most luxurious residence here. Please. I’m so lonely. I beg of you.”\n\n\nHis victim sat on the couch sassily, waiting for any chance to offend him. His cold green eyes kept their gaze on the Demon King of Hell. “Please, I beg of you, if you would so much as throw me a scrap of friendship! Please! Oh, I have gifts! I’ll give them to you, all of them!” The Demon King quickly presented each one. A golden sword, a crown full of jewels, and potions of magic, but none seemed to interest him. Finally, the King ashamedly presented one last gift: a can of wet cat food. He opened it. “I know you won’t be interested in this, I’m sorry. It’s a last attempt, and if I could receive a smudge of your attention, I’d be so elated.” The victim’s ears perked up as his paws grabbed at the can of cat food. The Demon King set it on the couch and smiled at his new friend: a stray cat."
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[WP] You grew up in a small tribe, the Elder of which would often tell tales of the impossible; of thin mountains and perfectly flat paths; of steel horses and giant birds that carry dozens of people. The Elder always ended these tales with a warning to never seek these things out. One day, you do.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Civilisations have fallen several different times in all the populated continents. Ancient civilizations have one thing in common, an oral tradition. Socrates said that writing would make mankind lazy and forgetful. How do we knew this? Someone wrote it down. That last fall of empires took the whole world with it. They did create several \"Rosetta stones\" but most were found the DMVs, lol, right?!\n\nStories from the Inuit are fairly accurate and did help find a missing explorer once. How cherished the knowledge is dictates how accurate the stories as kept. Rivers of light, birds that carried people, thin tall mountains, and such would show the contempt the ancestors had for the fallen civilization(s). Retelling these myths was hoped to reinforce the silliness of the previous follies. There had been a deep hate for those that came before characterized by children's stories.\n\nRebellious nature never went away from humanity rather it almost always died as the stories and rules were told over and over for a reason: Danger. Seeking out the origins of the stories, the subjects, never ended well fit those who went looking. Some never made it back while others came back broken.\n\nOur hero, let's calm him Sinbad, hard the stories, hell he even retold some of them. All that fucker had to do was keep his head down and wait for his father to die until the \"kingdom\" was given to him. Being the first born of a young king meant a life of servitude with a few short years of his own. Was it rebellion or impatience that drove him tip seek adventure? We know from the writings of men hundreds of years later, from their point of view at least, that he went questing for a cure.\n\nFifty years was a long time for anyone's life span back then and death was routinely encountered. Children died of dieses, broken bones, fights and accidents. Getting to adulthood was an achievement so that milestone became younger and younger the further away from the collapse humanity moved. Sinbad was 16 when he gathered his friends together to run off seeking their fortune. The stories always had some magical device, or brilliantly beautiful art. His friends were after treasure, only Sinbad knew the greatest treasure was life itself. The cure was all important to him.\n\nLeaving the village kingdom wasn't difficult as most had traveled to the edges before. The stories written down mass it seem so simple as putting one for in front of the other other one. They traveled light, no real provisions other than a few days of water, simple reason was that they didn't want to endanger their families survival by taking food from them. They almost turned back after a few days walk because the animals didn't look natural. Some creatures had extra limbs, others two heads, while most had strange growths in their bellies. The stories said these animals were poison and the plants they grazed on infected them with the poison. They ate the young when they could be found believing the poison hasn't set up in then as strongly.\n\nThey passed another village after several days walk. This humble village had round structures much like their own yet none of them were trusted not given aid. On the Far side of that \"kingdom\" lived a sister to one of the company that dud give them food and shelter for the night. They were all surprised to find her alive. There had been a raiding party that took food and young girls while burning houses down. The fires were to keep the fighters occupied during the raiders escape. Everyone in Sinbad's village assumed the girls were taken for food, not for breeding as the sister was clearly pregnant again.\n\nTheir party of nine souls were not enough to exact revenge and mass a hasty departure the next morning. After that encounter, they thought better of direct line walking. Animal trails were avoided and they slept in trees when they did sleep. Weeks of walking in the wilds, avoiding anything like settlements, seemed to make them apart as if they were wild themselves. \n\nOne night a couple of months into the journey found them on a mountain, near the top but still high enough to have a commanding cute of the valley with lit fires burning. Summer was raging with cricket chirping, owls hooting, and a breeze trashing the leaves against one another. This is when talk of treasure rise up out the men and where Sinbad turned the talk to what is civilization. The fires spotted around the tiny village in the valley glittered as they talked. The written stories go into details, imagined our not, about what it means to be civilized with the thrust of the conversation being that civilization is the biggest treasure they could hope to bring back.\n\nThey climbed several mountains had several conversations and saw wide swaths of hard rock, flat, for the most part, some parts were perfectly sprayed into two paths with wild grass and trees grew and yet others were separated by thin short vertical rock. They found an ancient iron grate covering a hole that was obvious designed to pass water down into the hole below it. Iron was known to them, fuck, their weapons were made of it. What shocked them was the designs that had obviously been cast into the metal mold. \n\nThey sent scouts further on and in directions perpendicular to their direction. They meet back at the makeshift camp the following evening. None of them reported anything like a village or even a house. They were alone and began to heat the metal. It was a cumbersome piece, valuable sure, but hard for one man to carry. They were working to cut it into second so each one carried a piece of the burden. They had collective knowledge of fire yet nothing they tried could get the metal hot enough so they could cut it apart.\n\nThe slab of rock made for excellent camping and ease of walking. They set up a rounded, a one room structure for them to sleep in while they pondered it this new mystery. They couldn't bite into the earth to set the posts so just left them resting on top of the rock. Each night after the evening meal they reestablished the tradition of telling each other stories. They weren't worried about being discovered and reveled in the tradition again.\n\nOn the third night the youngest, and smallest of them, began a story that he Chinese had always puzzled him. The jest of it was how the ancients would cook wood to make flame as hit as the sun only it was never expressed as heat, hot, flame, or such normal obvious description. Baking wood was magical incarnation of a Greek weapon, or Roman tool. Not all of them thought trying to bake wood was such a silenced idea arguing that it might conjure demons or just kill them all.\n\nSinbad, bless his soul, overruled the objections and directed his pals to build a round stone object from the stones from the bluff that butted up against the stone slab. Inside, before they rounded off a dime roof, was placed as much dry wood as would fit. Around that they placed even wood them build a tower of stone but unlike the inner one, left the walls unencumbered, no mud, nothing to inhibit the flow of air. The outer one was just to hide the light from other aggressors. None of them wanted to find out what would happen if the valley inhabitants decided to get curious. \n\n(Stopping here for length limits of Reddit)",
"I sat down against a dense oak tree atop the hill. It has been a four day walk to get as far as I am. The farthest I had gone from the Motherbush was only one and one half. I reached for my water only to remember I had already ran out by mid morning. \n\nI looked up through the branches and let the thin rays of the sun burn my eyes. The pain felt deserved, I should have known Elder Isaiah tales were just a fever dreams of an old man. Father was right; the only thing beyond the Motherbush was endless forrest that sought to punish those who strayed form god's intended place for us. \n\nI wondered whether it was better to turn back and die closer to the Motherbush or keep walking in the beyond. Perhaps it would be better for the mothers and my siblings to never find my body so that their pain would be eased. I dragged myself to my feet and continued down the hill.\n\nIn the distance I heard bees swarming above. I figured that they would be the best company I could find for when I passed. The buzz grew louder as I walked but strangely came from higher in the sky. I never new bees to group together above the trees. Through a gap in the dense forest I realized the sound was not bees. It was a strange insect with wings jutting out evenly from six sides.The strange bug stopped its slow march through the sky right above me. I froze in terror, believing the bug to be an instrument of God himself sent to smite me for my defiance. I felt like a child caught stealing, so I sat on the ground and awaited my divine judgement. \n\nI sat motionless until in self pity when a single voice boomed \"HELLO?\" through the words. It sounded too human to be the divine creator himself. \n\nThen a man not of the Motherbush appeared from a ravine, \"Hello there are you alright? Are you lost? You're pretty far out here by yourself.\"I couldn't process it. No child of Adam and Eve existed beyond the Motherbush since the time of Christ himself. The man ran over to me and gasped.\n\n\"Hey man, are you lost? You look pretty dehydrated and the trail is a couple miles back down this ridge.\" I looked back at him still confounded.\n\n\"Alright man no worries, I'll get you back somewhere safe, I'm gonna call some help.\"\n\nThe man reached into his pocket and produced a strange black stone which he looked at intensely before talking directly into it. He returned the stone to his pocket and gave me water from a strange blue vessel. He looked as old as Father but had no hair on his face like the other men of the Motherbush did. \n\nBefore I had been able collect myself I heard a fierce roar erupt form the ravine. Another man appeared on top of some beast with no face, the animal itself screaming until it stopped next to me. I fell on to my back and shuffled myself against a tree. The first man grabbed my hand and sat me on the back of the beast, its heartbeat rapid and unending, unlike an animal I had ever seen. As the rider drove the beast forward motion of the forest around me drove me to vomit, but nothing would come up as it been two days seen I had last eaten. We came down a trail to a dirt clearing when I saw what the elder had described. A massive steel beast that trailed a wagon, which I figured this smaller beast had come from. What the elder said was true.\n\nPart 1"
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[WP] “We’ll come back for you, we swear!” They cried as they severed the rope between me and them. I held my breath as I fell backwards into the void. It wasn’t their fault. If they didn’t Cut the tether, we would’ve all fallen in. I begin to take my first breath in the darkness…
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I took my first breath in the darkness, and then the world went black. \n\nI woke up to the chirping of crickets. I lay on the cool earth, staring up at the sky, a smattering of stars on deepest indigo blue framed by the silhouette of jagged leaves. I sat up gingerly, the forest around me illuminated in pale blues and greys, pearly light spilling from the moon overhead to paint the world in the softest light. A soft breeze rustled around me as the leaves chattered. \n\nWhere was I? A headache throbbed at my temples as I struggled to collect my thoughts. It had been right there, wholly within my grasp it seemed, but my memory of how I got here had slipped away already. Just a dream, I supposed. But really, where the hell was I? And more to the point, who was I? \n\nThe crashing of footsteps distracted me from these pressing questions and I whipped around to detect the source of the noise. A young woman, slight and willowy, emerged from the darkness, her blonde hair and pale skin glowing eerily in the moonlight. \n\n“Hello?” She asked, her voice as wispy and fine as mist. “My God. You! Where are we? Do you know?”. \n\nI shook my head slowly. “No. Do you know?” \n\nShe stared at me for a long moment, her eyes large and childlike, then spoke again in a near whisper. “Please. I’ve been here for days. I don’t know where I came from. I just want to go home”. She took a jerky, shuddering breath. “Please help me”. \n\nAs strange as I felt, a sense of calm overcame me. “Maybe we should just walk”, I suggested.\n\n“I’ve been walking for days”, she countered glumly, but she joined me without further resistance as I began navigating a path through the thick growth of trees and shrubs. \n\nWe soon found ourselves on the edge of the tree line looking out on a beach, the white noise of the endless waves roaring softly in my ears. \n\n“Everywhere I go, I end up back here”, the girl said. “It’s an island”.\n\n“How the hell did we get here?”, I asked her.\n\n“I know about as much as you do” she replied with a limp shrug. “If I knew more, I might be out of here already”. \n\nI felt slightly annoyed by her, but at the same time I could understand her defeated attitude. Only a few hours since waking and the not-knowing, the dumb sense of blankness infuriated me. I didn’t know who I was or from where I came, but I did know that at one point I knew, that I was more than this, if that makes sense. \n\nA noise behind us startled me, and I turned quickly to see another person, a woman, walking out of the trees towards us. \n\n“Zach! Renee!” She shouted when she spotted us, and she began to run.\n\nZach. Zach. \n\nHoly shit, my name is Zach. \n\nA series of images began to flash through my mind. A group of people singing Happy Birthday to me. My god, my family. A red brick house. A baby- my baby, my daughter Zoe. My girlfriend Sabrina. My street. My car. The University I worked for. My lab coat. \n\nMy name is Zach. \n\nHow the hell did I get here?\n\n“Zach!”, the woman said again as she reached us . Only this time, I realised I knew who these two were. The images came back to me in glorious noise and colour, filling me with memory, my memory. Amanda and Renee, my coworkers. \n\n“You two”, Amanda said. “We need to get it right this time”. \n\n“Amanda. Zach. My God”, Renee said in a strangled voice, her eyes large and shiny in the dark. “What is this? What’s happening?”. \n\n“What do you remember?”, Amanda asked brusquely. \n\nRenee shook her head. “I... we were working on our theory of time loops. We had created a simulation. An experiment. They were asking for volunteers-”. \n\n“Right”, Amanda said. “Where are we now?”.\n\nRenee’s eyes flicked to me then back to Amanda, quick as a whip. “Are we in the sim?”. \n\nAmanda looked between us, her brow furrowed. We didn’t need an answer to know, and Renee pressed her fingers to her lips, her face drawn, and shook her head so slightly that it was almost imperceptible. \n\nAmanda took a deep breath. “We need to break the loop. Let’s get out of here. Zach, you with us?”. \n\nI nodded, numb. I had a vague recollection of the simulation myself. It was coming back now, as my head throbbed with the retuning memory. It had been regarded as a stupid experiment, indulgent and a tad pretentious. I don’t remember volunteering.\n\nHow did I end up in here? \n\n“Okay. Let’s go”, Amanda said. She led us to some rocks half submerged in the dark, swirling seawater, which greedily lapped away at its half of the rocks. Amanda gestured to a seemingly normal rock pool, the moon’s silver reflection bobbing in its inky surface. Suddenly, it seemed to have been swallowed and the rock pool suddenly turned as black and deep as charcoal. An immense dread rose within me. \n\n“This is our way out”, Amanda said. “Look. I don’t want to scare you guys or get into too much detail, but something went wrong with this sim and I was sent in to get you, so let’s not wait around”. She pulled a thick coil of rope out of her jacket and soon had it knotted around our waists. \n\nWe stood at the edge of the void, peering in as innocently as children. My heart pattered in my chest, as quick and light as a hummingbird’s. \n\n“I’m ready”, Renee ventured in a wavering voice.\n\n“Me too. Zach?”, Amanda queried. \n\n“Mhmmm”, I managed to grunt. I didn’t dare say more, lest my nerve fail me. \n\n“We all go together”, Renee said, her eyes fixed on the black hole. \n\n“Of course”, Amanda said soothingly. I felt her hand slide into mine, cool and smooth fingers clasping my own hot and sweaty ones. \n\nWe did leap together, but the problem became obvious immediately. Where the other two fell gracefully, I was pulled, magnetised downwards, as rough and rapid as though the devil himself was drawing me into his clutches. For a brief moment, I saw the lab, familiar faces staring at me, but the comforting image was torn away, a brief flicker, and down, down we went. \n\n“This isn’t right!” Renee screamed. “We were almost there!”. \n\n“Zach, something’s gone wrong. We have to let you go!”. Amanda’s voice sounded distant, the echo of a shriek. \n\n“Don’t leave me here!”, I shouted, but even in the darkness and flurry of motion, the strange cold wind that pushed against me and the rapid fall into the void, I saw the short flash of silver as Amanda pulled a knife from her jacket and began to sever the rope. \n\nFear raced through me, wild and ragged. “Amanda, please”, I begged. An animalistic feeling gripped me, the deepest horror imaginable as I pictured myself falling through blackness forever, unfeeling and alone. \n\n“We’ll come back for you, we swear!”\n\nThe words echoed in my ears and then Amanda and Renee vanished as I tumbled down, down, down, away from them. \n\nI took my first breath in the darkness, and then the world went black. \n\nI woke up to the chirping of crickets.",
"Tieran plummeted, his heart heavy as he watched the faces of his friends fade from sight. He landed with a low oomph his fall cushioned by something soft and scratchy. Blackness clutched at his gaze, but he quickly ascertained it was grass - or the Underworld equivalent. \n\nHell was emptier than he’d predicted. Nearly silent. A low hum came from somewhere like the din of an electric change, but he could only hear it if he strained his ears. \n\nTieran struggled to his feet the lack of light somehow effecting his balance as well. A shape in the distance caught his attention after a sudden movement. At first he thought there was light ahead, but soon realized the shape was somehow darker than his surroundings. The blackest being in all of hell. It seemed to be an appropriate destination for his suicide mission. \n\nHe staggered forth the silence eating at his ears and clawing its way through the shreds of confidence that had somehow survived his fall. One single shard of something focused his feet and hardened his heart to continue. Not courage, bravery, nor even hope. Sheer, confounding desperation forced his feet forward instead. Without this journey so much more than his life would be lost. \n\nBeyond, Tieran was nothing. He taught English to the few that would listen, but he couldn’t read or write himself. His studies had stopped being useful when the radios went dead. They were last to go after the internet and television went quiet. There was no news from anywhere. Even the town over became in accessible when the cars all fell back to pieces. \n\nOnly the gaping hole in the ground that inched steadily across town swallowing everything in its path promised to link the few survivors to the rest of humanity. And it’s promise was a dark omen at best. \n\nFinally, as food and water dwindled Tieran and his friends hatched a plan. They would rappel down into the hole looking for answers. \n\nA low thud focused Tieran on the present task once more. He couldn’t afford to mourn the strength of their rope any longer. He had to forge onward. The shape has shifted and was suddenly still. That must have been the thud. \n\nHe was close now. Too close. The shape was smaller than he’d initially thought and it shuddered like it’s own darkness was too frightening to imagine. \n\nSlowly he reached toward the darkness expect his fingers to pass through the shadows fluidly. Instead he felt... cold, damp, substance staying his fingers and numbing his skin. The being shifted and opened deep purple eyes to peer up at him. Tieran was mesmerized the deep purple freezing him in his tracks. The beast blinked and quivered curling his body against Tieran. A feeling like he‘d never move again swallowed him, but the animal had stopped shivering. \n\nThe beast didn’t speak, but Tieran felt the words in his mind echoing and reverberating down to his very core. It was a quiet voice, pained, and seemed almost strangled to the boy. \n\n“Make it stop.”\n\nStop what? \n\n“The noise. The static”\n\nThe realization his Tieran quickly. The technology was causing this creature pain. He hadn’t reached hell, just the lair of this baby beast who couldn’t stand innovation. But he knew he couldn’t help the beast. \n\nEmbracing the cool numbness Tieran sat down with the animal and weaved his fingers in its “fur” a coolness like ice water washing over his skin as he brushes his fingers back and forth. \n\nI’m so sorry I can’t help you. \n\nThe beast moaned, a heart wrenching, low, and guttural cry like a last gasping breath and buried his nose in Tieran’s leg. The shuddering started up again shaking Tieran’s whole body as well. It was almost as if the beast was sobbing. \n\nThe beast’s cries had shattered the very foundation of the lair and rocks and earth began tumbling down around them. The beast fixed Tieran with its piercing purple gaze and sighed out it’s nose. Humans had built over its home, flooded his space with noise, and shattered his comfort. The beast would be crushed by his home, physically, in time, but the humans had taken it away long ago."
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[WP]"Your wish is my command", the genie booms. "You have unlimited funds, however you may not purchase even a grain of rice for yourself, and if you talk of this wish to anyone, it will all disappear". With his last speech complete, the genie vanished back into the lamp. Your stomach rumbled.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Two wishes left. Well, if I wasn’t able to buy food for myself... hmm.\n\nThere’s a solution.\n\nI rubbed the lamp once again. Out came the genie, awaiting my second wish.\n\n“I wish for a never-ending, never-spoiling, always-edible, tasty meal.”\n\n“Your wish is my command.”\n\nBefore me appeared a very humble meal... a ham and cheese sandwich. I excepted something more... grandiose.\n\n“...What’s the catch?”\n\n“This meal shall be the only kind of meal you can eat for as long as you live. While it may sustain you and satisfy your health, you cannot change what you eat... so if you do, you will fall under incurable ills.”",
"\"J.R. Grimwand, Magical Consultant\", the plaque on the door said. I knocked cautiously. The door opened by itself, revealing a small room filled with potion bottles, censers, pentagrams, hexagrams, retorts and astrological diagrams. A large stuffed alligator hanged from the ceiling.\n\n\"Could you lend me a quill and some ink?\", I asked the proprietor, a small wizened old man.\n\n\"Yes, of course\", he answered.\n\nI sat down at J.R. Grimwand's desk and wrote about the situation. The magical coin purse did not vanish as Grimwand read the letter.\n\n\"Ah, my young friend, now I get it\", he said. \"Looks like you've already found a method to circumvent the limitations. The genie never forbade you to write about your wish.\"\n\n\"Exactly, sir. Now I need a consultation. How do I circumvent the other limitation? You see, I'm hungry.\"\n\n\"Very easy, young man. Do not buy rice! The genie said nothing about buckwheat, potatoes, tomatoes, venison and beluga caviar. Looks like this genie is a greenie; it could have been worse, young sir. Ancient genies formulate their limitations in a way that makes lawyers green with envy.\"\n\n\"How much do I owe you?\"\n\n\"One million ducats. The genie said nothing about services and consultations, either.\"\n\nI gladly obliged.",
"I paused there for a moment, waiting for the other shoe to drop, before I realized that was it. That was the catch. Unlimited money but I couldn't spend it on myself. Kind of a supernatural \"Brewster's Millions\" bit. And I couldn't talk about it. If those were the only strictures, well...this was honestly kind of anti-climactic. \n\n*Compared to Paul*, I thought to myself, *this boy weren't shit*. \n\nYou see, there's something Mr. Genie didn't know about me. I've been playing D&D for a very long time. And at some tables it's considered de rigueur to corrupt any wish a player character makes. I've played under good DMs and I've played under bad ones, I've seen Wishes corrupted well and I've seen them corrupted horribly--especially by Paul--and it's left me with a very particular set of skills. Resource management is first nature to me. I can assess the outcomes of a course of action very, very quickly. And, I'm ashamed to say, I've picked up a bit of notoriety as a rules lawyer. \n\nAs my stomach rumbled, I smiled and pulled out my mobile phone, and started texting. \n\n---\n\n\n\"A fuck-mothering genie?\" Jason asked, with a slice of mozzarella bread paused midway to his mouth. I'd had him go all out, a couple stuffed crust pizzas, cheese sticks, wings, some sodas. Wasn't like money was any object. And I hadn't bought shit. He had. \n\nI nodded, which seemed to be safe. I took care not to grunt or vocalize. I had the Samsung in my hand, ready to text anything complex. \n\n\"And you have the power to produce infinite money, only you can't spend it on your own direct benefit. Like the Shadow Man, from The Princess and the Frog. Except you don't need money because that is the power...and you don't owe it to any demons.\"\n\n*Doctor Facilier*, I texted. \"I think they really wasted his potential, as a villain,\" I said aloud. \n\n\"Yeah, probably. And what did his friends on the other side need more money for, anyway? Like, was the rent due? Was someone going to evict them? Out of hell? Where would they even go?\"\n\n\"I dunno,\" I said, pouring another tumbler of Mountain Dew. \"Detroit?\"\n\n\"Right, right. And also, you can't talk about this?\"\n\nMy thumbs flew in a whir. *Nope, but textings kosher*, I responded through the ether. *RAW*. \n\nAh, 'rules as written'. One of my favorite phrases, right up there with plausible deniability. Give me a loophole, and I will abuse it, maliciously. Try and come at me with the errata if you dare, see if I'm gonna read that crap. \n\nJason seemed to remember his bread, and took a bite as he ruminated over events. \"Okay then; so from here on...now what?\"\n\nIt took me a whole lotta texting to explain 'what now'. How much money each member of the game group could spend extra before the IRS got suspicious, per my back of the envelope math. About lotto jackpots, and how many tickets the lads would have to buy to get the initial winnings to set up a BS holding corporation to give everyone else cushy jobs as 'consultants', so we'd all have credible explanations for our bank accounts. About how I still wouldn't be able to buy things directly, but how you could rent and lease quite a lot of things; and when it came to necessities like food and clothes, well, the boys could always shop on my behalf. About how much time we'd all have to game once we had the fine details worked out. I didn't have all the minutia in order yet, but I had enough of a rough outline to set things in motion. Like I said, I've taught myself to work this stuff out very quickly. \n\nI couldn't help but feel as though I could sense a distant air of resentment, as though I'd just derailed someone's campaign. But unfortunately for Mr. Genie, I was something he'd just not anticipated. \n\nHe'd never dealt with a power gamer before."
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[WP] You have finally been released from a time loop that you have been stuck in for 14,000 years. It’s the next day and you have to reenter your normal life with 14k years worth of experience, skills, and memories.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
" I had lived a life without direction, drifting from low paid job to low paid job, never really exerting myself or fulfilling my potential. That's why in the time loop it wasn't even until I had been stuck in it for a few days that I even noticed it wasn't a new day. I was already in my own self-enforced monotonous time loop, this didn't seem that different. \n\n \n Of course I now had the realisation that I had no repercussions. I did all the tired clichés, sabotage, quitting in humorous ways, inappropriate advances, some of which even worked! I learnt so many languages and consumed both fiction and non-fiction with endless voracity. Yet my mind never seemed to fill up, it just kept retaining everything there was to know. \n\n \n However I could find no revelation, no way out, all I had was thousands of years of the same dreary mid week day. Also the more I did, the more I experienced, the more I regretted that I had never had the drive to do this normally. Thousands of years of regret. \n\n \n The novelty wore off. I sunk into my bed, and slept through the whole day, then a week, then two, yet the alarm always went off at the same time, the same date. \n\n \n I willed with all my heart and being that I could be any-when else, or anyone else, anyone who might be free from this. I got part of that – I woke up the next day as a young lady in Japan. I had a whole new slew of tired clichés to go through! I got to see life in a different culture, see how women were treated in Japan, and explore what it was like to live as a the other gender. It was eye-opening, in more ways than one. Once I had done everything I could have there, I willed again and I was someone else, and then another, and another. Soon I had been every single person there was in the world for at least one day. \n\n \n That was when I had found my out. I had suspected, that this couldn't have all been some science gone wrong, that there had to be something more at work. So when God spoke to me, I wasn't altogether that surprised. He said “Thank you for my holiday,” as he touched his palm to my forehead. I say his palm, however God seemed to me to be all people, at all times. Be they female, male, white, black, asian, young, old, wise or stupid, every human that ever was and ever will be. Much of what I had learned drained away, absorbed into the mass that was this amalgamation of mankind. \n\n \n Now I understood though, I had experienced every eventuality, every possibility for every human for just a single day. There were times when I had a fantastic time, but so many times also that my joy led to misery for others. If you can see every eventuality, how do you choose? If you, as a god-like being pick one path to help one person, another person may end up destitute as a result. At the same time, if a person has no sense of loss, they will not savour the victories in life, they just become numb. \n\n \n I had trouble with being decisive in my own life, that was why I coasted along on the easiest path, yet to be confronted with all people and all eventualities, I see why a god could never guide their children, only observe, experience, and feel the possibilities. I had lived a single day through all eyes, and I had somehow survived it, but I do not envy this God. \n\n \n I asked no more of him, I think without words the experience had taught me all I needed to know, and though I felt so much of what I had learned drain away from me through God's palm, I knew that I would retain what I needed, what was important. More importantly I knew I had just had to pick one of those paths and own it, I couldn't carry on living without experiencing, persisting without sense of drive or a willingness to risk that the decision I made might be the wrong one. \n\n \n So many of those paths through that single day had been calamitous, but just as many more had been wonderful, not just for me, but for others. I knew the best path through that mid-week day, and now there would be countless other days for me to make my own success and mistakes. \n\n \n ((So this doesn't quite fit the prompt perfectly, I just in my mind don't like the idea of retaining all knowledge in a human brain, so I went with a different path, just where my imagination took me.))",
"In the movies, the time loops always releases after the main character has his Revelation Moment—he must see what the universe wanted him to see about himself and have a fix for his crappy life choices/terrible attitude/daddy issues. I know because I watched every movie about time loops over and over during the first five years. \n\nI tried!\n\nAfter getting over my initial week or two worth of „what can I get away with in 24 hours?“, I spent several months apologizing to my girlfriend for not valuing her opinions and even more making up to my parents for ignoring their solid life advice. \nIt wasn’t enough. \nI sold my company and gave the money to the poor. I adopted foster kids and organized rallies about climate change. \n\nBut everyday it didn’t matter. I’d wake up the same asshole stuck on an endless Thursday in September. \n\nA hundred years go by and I come to the conclusion that being a good person wasn’t my Moment. \n\nA dark century passed of crippling depression followed what I hope I’ll eventually forget dubbed The Year of Blood. Yeah...I think you get the picture. \n\nThen I slapped myself out of it. \n\nI threw myself into the pit of knowledge. I read libraries and learned every language know to man and talked to every human being I could reach. \nI learned what it meant to be alive. 14,000 years of Thursdays in September passed. \n\nBut you may be asking yourself—how am I reading this? Did you escape to tell the tale?\nYes. Yes, I did. \n\nI never had my Moment. All I had to do was figure out time travel and hop from Wednesday the 20th to Friday the 22nd. \n\nIf you’re curious, that was the year 52900.",
"A single tear splashed onto the ivory piano keys as Andres sat. He had imagined this very moment for the longest time. The weight of the note echo'd throughout the audition hall. The panel of judges, watching in utter confusion and a lack of contempt, shuffled awkwardly in their chairs.\n\n\"Mr Vasques...\"\n\nAndres didn't look up. He was too transfixed on the feel, still not fully comprehending that this moment was even real. \n\n\"Mr. Vasques, your piece?\" Said an old voice from the judging panel. \n\nThe lights were bright on the academy stage. The space that surrounded Andres was consciously large. He felt almost naked with that much room. It was nothing compared to the airplane he took here. The journey which seemed to never cease.\n\nTravelling from Madrid to America was a long journey in itself, around about 6 hours, and as Andres sat on Row I, Seat 3 he practiced the piano. Well, as much as he possibly could do while in the air, he had brought a piano mat. It was a simple mat which contained the piano keys where he could practice his fingering and spacing. \n\nAfter he had practiced for a bit, he had fallen asleep and woke up still in the air and this seemed to carry on for what seemed like lifetimes, and as he continued to practice, after he had realised his hell-on-earth was not ending, the notes seemed to fade. He could always hear, in his head, the pitch of what he played, however, as he continued to exist in this space of time the memory faded and he was left with just the mat. \n\nAndres, while in the air for 14,000 years had created his own magnum opus, the song which truly defined him, and he could hear it in his head over and over again. However, when the notes faded, the song faded too and it drove him near insane - being unable to hear the very song which he poured his soul into.\n\nNow as he sat at this piano, in front of the audition for music school, he realised that the judges, the nerves of getting into the school, the whole rigmarole of this process was lost on him. He just wished to hear his song again, and now he had the perfect moment to hear it again. \n\nAndres, playing the music again was soul crushing. His eyes were almost blinded by his tears as it tore him apart - the lack of music in his life had left a large hole, which the very performance itself was filling up. As he finished and collapsed on the piano with a cacophony of dissonance, the judges asked\n\n\"Does playing cause you to react like this every time?\"\n\n\"Sorry\" He replied, his voice trembling \"I just haven't played in a while\""
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[WP] It’s been years since the war, and you’ve gotten better, but, like any wound, it leaves a scar. You use chess to heal. Ten years after the death of your friend, he challenges you to chess.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The park was darkening, and the wind was picking up. The buildings turned the sky a wine-dark red with charcoal pillars of cloud surrounding the park. She swept the pieces back into the box. Her last game had been rough, she went back through the moves while their imprint remained on her. She'd been distracted, maybe by the drop in pressure on her ear. Storms like this, big thunderheads stretching laboriously upwards, always triggered her inner ear. They made her list to one side, tilt her head unconsciously. She'd played lazy, so the young man with greasy hair had greedily devoured her center. She tried a feint he read and lopped off with ease. The inflection point was right at the start when she endangered her rook to defend an advancing front. He was right, it was a good game, but she'd lost in the first five moves. Pieces packed, she left the park. As she passed the furthest table, a sparkle caught her peripheral vision. She turned. Pieces, on a table. She walked over to them, watching the park's deepening shadows. She turned her head, peering down through clouds out of her canopy.\n\n\n\"Hello? Anyone here?\" She called out. \n\n\nThe park seemed empty. She stood over the pieces, looking across to the restroom. It had been locked an hour ago. Summer nights she didn't go home until the light faded. There hadn't been anyone in the field of stone tables for at least twenty minutes. The pieces were heavy, cut glass. The game was nearly over. She watched the board, trying to wind the game back. Overhead, thunder rolled. She felt familiarity and It made her spine tingle. \n\n\n\"Fox three, fox three!\" \n\n\nHer inner ear flipped. She sat, clutching it. She could see the scenery rolling underneath her, felt the plane's inertia dance. Black had a bad start, it seemed, misjudging a critical interaction and losing a knight. They'd come out of the clouds, they were meant to pass over the patrol. Instead, they'd dropped right behind them; four dots racing diagonally below. Blood rang in her ears. The sacrificed knight was not in vain and white was running scared. A rook was locked beside the remaining knight and the black queen was marauding. Pablo had the shot, and he took it. He rode into battle with a battle standard and that's about it. His last missile ripped their lead fighter out of the air just as it swerved. It just clipped their tailfin, but spread a bloody orange smear on the sky. The formation exploded. She'd raced after the furthest, pitching up slightly in her acceleration to fire at a distant stray, send him scampering to outrun a hellfire missile. She played the next move, then the next. Chasing the queen out of her garden. Pressure from a released bishop. Two pawns captured to the queen. \n\n\n\"Number three is in pursuit, Roger Pablo.\" \n\n\nThe aging MiG was ill suited to dogfight or outrun her. But, he could just stay out of her radar lock. They walzed queen, rooks and knight across a board now littered with captured pawns. She moved the pieces almost mechanically. It was a game she realized she knew. One that had come up, it's eerie similarity a byproduct of learned style. The trap who's jaws snap shut before you realize it's been tripped. Carlos always grinned when he played chess. It was constant, like he was watching his favorite movie. He'd smoke a stogie so fast in intense scenarios on the board that he'd need to excuse himself, walking outside and coughing for minutes at a time. No doubt thinking ahead all the while. That's how he came up with such subtle ruses. She didn't see them, just like that nest of flak cannons. The plane wasn't designed to handle such things, and it was a brown smear that lit up her HUD. Panic seized her. The bishops formed an cross at her kings throat. She played on, the compact Filipino eagerly reaching over the board to take her pieces. A rout, as it were. She had a lock. She fired, knowing she'd never avoid the emplacement.\n\n\n\"It was the only thing for it, and you know it.\" His voice was quiet, but held it's syrupy drawl in her memory. Queen takes bishop, pawn takes queen, bishop takes rook. \n\n\nHe'd come low over the hill, almost low enough to pip a light post with his underbelly. Emptied a full barrel and a half of fifty cal' into the hillside. Flew right into a cloud of charred metal. She heard the other pilot whoop at their almost simultaneous strikes. Then, wheeling about, they watched the damaged plane drop, skip once, and explode on a rocky outcrop. The sky flashed. At the table, she shuddered. Drizzle had begun- cold, slashing rain. It misted in her hair and on the pieces. In that moment she was moving both sides in a nighttime rainstorm, panicking. The game was almost over. White was without a queen, huddled and packed together. A rabble, dribbling with rain water. Black closed in, but they limped. The squad hadn't expected a dogfight. They were late, and fuel light. She was exhausted, but to lose focus was death. It hurtled around her\n\n\n\"Let me show you\" he said. \"I only ever beat you when you got too drunk.\" He began to play the game. No matter what black tried, an answer snaked out to forstall the inevitable. \"Because you did make it back.\" He said, smoke billowing out of his mouth. \"And I didn't. That's how it goes sometimes. You're here now- the smartest person I ever met.\" Their gaze met across time. \"Now go do something besides play chess. The world deserves it.\"\n\n\nBlack's king found itself wedged against a pair of pawns with a rook cutting off the escape. She smiled at the board, stood up, and marched off into the rain."
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[WP] You are a high school student who had to watch all their classmates die one by one. When you the last one left standing, you are sent to an alternate dimension those deaths will not occur and it is the day you all first met.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"At this point, in a way, it’s merely an inconvenience to me. I get to see every inch of their skin pale and dry out, wrinkling ever so slightly; their eyes, bloodshot, course with stressed cries for relief; their bodies, from their necks to the tips of their fingers, contort wildly. Though, the image can’t be the worst part. Far from it. With every damn death, only I seem to have to listen intently to ever insufferable and dragging breath, listen to how those huffs scream with the awareness of mortality. Only I need to stay put and watch as, in a twisted fate, their lives all flash before my eyes in slow motion, each setting soundtracked by ragged breaths.\n“Not again, not again, no!” As I enter my home, I yell to myself. Why, everyday, does another need to breathe their last? “Goddamnit! Why!” Shrieks eventually grow louder from my tired vocal chords. This was a nightmare.. Nevertheless, I strut across the dull room, etching yet another name into the list hung over the closet door. ‘Taekwoon Lee’. He was our favourite transfer, and our only transfer. Even he wasn’t spared this grim period.\nIf I was to be honest with myself, I would only admit that I... couldn’t feel anymore. I don’t feel remorse for what is happening, I don’t feel saddened because I’ve seen more of them go. No longer can I feel anything but hard, cold resentment for my life. I don’t have much left, but I’ll lose that, too, as I’ve lost everything else.\nNot allowing myself to dwell in this harsh reality any longer, I whisk myself off into sleep under one thin, torn blanket. ‘When did everything go so... wrong?’\n\nBright and cheerful sunlight streams through the curtains of fresh fog near the window. It seemed unnaturally inviting and celebratory for a day like today.. Especially when you consider what happened just fifteen hours prior. I opened my eyes slowly, relishing in the unpleasant scuff of dried tears across my cheeks and the bridge of my nose. At least that reminds me that I’m still human.. still alive.\nThough, when I got up, I felt lighter than ever. It almost felt as if a weight had been thrown from my shoulders... and it was euphoric! Slight shame crept in between the cracks of my newfound happiness as I recall. “I just lost Tae.. And I’m laughing, cheery.” It hurts to think of.. I’m such a bad friend.\nLooking at my phone screen, it hits me that I’m almost late for school. But.. why do I even go at this point? Eh, I go for my parents; they can pay for me to be here, then I can dress in the classy plaid slacks and white button-down uniform and catch a cheap tram everyday. So, I did just that. Hastily donning the only slightly stiff dress clothes, I threw a backpack over my shoulder and hurried to the nearest tram stop.\n“Hey, Holland!” A familiar voice calls from behind me.. but it can’t be! He’s dead. “Holland? You’re spacing out, man!” No, no, no, that’s him. How? Why? Did I.. pass in my sleep? I’m dreaming, that’s it! “Hm.. Are you ok, hyung? You seem unwell.” I reached up to pinch my shoulder, not catching a word of his, but before I could I was caught even more off guard.\n“Oh, Taekwoon! Holland! That means I’m not late for the bus, yeah?” Him, too? No, I’m dreaming- OW! All of a sudden, I was smacked upside the head from out of nowhere. Though, it seemed to be just what I needed to snap out of my trance. This isn’t a dream.. So they’re actually here!\nIn that moment of realisation, a tear almost feel from my eye. I had them back, yes, but as soon as I cheerily looked over at my old friends, my smile dropped as quickly as it came. Their.. deaths replayed in my mind a million times over. It hurt, but I was also so elated to see them..\nAt long last, waterfalls of tears fell from my eyes and I embraced them tightly. If they’re alive.. That means everyone else is back, too! Yes, yes, yes..! Lord, what did I do so right to be able to have them back!",
"“NO! NO! Oh god why did this happen?!” I scream as horror streaks across my face. The lifeless bodies of my classmates are pretty much all I can see. Their blood covering the walls, entrails spread onto the floor, and the mangled corpses with faces twisted in fear & agony.\n\nI know what did this, I can never forget its face. It’s chalk white skin stretched across its head, the beady red eyes, and that crooked smile bearing bloodied fangs. I remember seeing it on the way to school, covering itself in a dark hood.\n\nDried blood covers my uniform, and I mutter out. “Why...why...why?!” I shut my eyes tight, the only thing I see is that face creeping into my thoughts. I only hear the echoing words of that monster drilling into my skull. “Hahhahahaha! I’ll make you see them be torn from limb to limb over! And over! And over again!”\n\nSuddenly waking up, I look around my surroundings. It’s the classroom. What the hell happened? Two figures approach me, Michelle and Liam, my friends from middle school. “Hey Andrew, are you ok? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Liam chuckles. \n\nI look at them confusedly, they should be dead, but they aren’t. “W-When is it?” I ask. They both look at eachother, just as confused, before Michelle turns to me. “What do you mean? It’s the first day of school.” \n\nMy eyes widen, the start of classes was last week. Looking down, I stare in slight shock at my uniform. The brown vest, its matching tie and pants, along with the bright white shirt I’m wearing is devoid of blood. I look at my phone, the cracks have disappeared and it shows the date as August 15th.\n\nAs I stand up in a rush to scan ny surroundings, my other classmates look at me as if I was a frightened animal. Along with my confused friends were Dandelion, Harry, Samantha, Carlton, Victor, his sister Valerie, and Maurice. All alive, something’s very wrong here. That....thing definitely killed them, and I’m guessing I need to stop it."
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[WP] Humanity is treated with care because we have imagination - we create ideas we never encountered before. Why aren't we contacted? We invented existential dread.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The Mindplague. The Deathwyrm. The Bane of Intelligence. There were many names for it throughout the Eight Galaxies; it was a potential bringer of death to any intelligent species, regardless of biological function. It wasn't a virus, or a poison, or an invasive species; that was what made it so deadly. We couldn't develop a vaccine, or an antivenom, or even fight it off. The only hope was to shut out any civilization that had been contaminated, a cruel fate relegated to solar systems at a time. It was a ruthless bringer of death that, in my culture, was known as the Scourge.\n\nRumors say that the Scourge started in the Orion Arm of the Milky Way Galaxy, but it's hard to know for sure as any and all information about it is monitored and controlled. That's what makes it so deadly, you see: it *is* information. A bundle of concepts, a string of thoughts, a chain of logic, and a soup of emotions, that when pieced together *just so*, could break apart the mind of a sentient creature. One day they'd be fine, and the next, shattered like glass. Some recovered a semblance of a normal life, while others carried the seed of despair in the back of their mind for the rest of their existence, an infection ready to flare up at a moment's notice.\n\nThe story goes that a certain species had somehow ingrained this bundle of information and emotions into its culture, yet carried on with few symptoms. They had against all odds become resistant- but not entirely immune- to the Scourge. And so, they eventually took to the stars, bringing with them the seed of death embedded in their culture. They learned of the civilizations in their local space, and developed trading and transportation networks. They slowly ingrained themselves into the culture of their part of the Galaxy. Then, the Eight Galaxy Alliance contacted them. \n\nBack then they had only just become the Eight Galaxy Alliance, working to deepen their foothold in the eighth galaxy, the Milky Way. Seeing the mostly harmless local cultures, they offered their hand in friendship without hesitation. The planets accepted, happy to learn of even greater technology and more diverse populations.\n\nJust after joining the alliance was when the infection- and I say this metaphorically- flared up. It had crept into crevices of society, riding along in the minds of the original host species. Over time, without realizing the magnitude of their actions, the species shared the information and emotions that made up the Scourge. While some succumbed to despair immediately, many didn't fully comprehend the Scourge until long after their interactions with the original species. Only with a deep understanding of the host species' culture could the Scourge click together in their minds.\n\nBut once the Scourge had crossed the species gap, it was much, much deadlier. Its spread into cultures and languages beyond its origin made it in turn much easier to translate, and thus communicate. Those suffering would share it in hopes of relief, only to realize that they had simply infected ones close to them.\n\nOnce it spread beyond the Milky Way, the Alliance stepped in. Its Eighth galaxy was quarantined, and interactions between people were traced to scan for all infected. Humanitarians volunteered to be exposed in order to help quarantine the infected. After many losses and many systems placed into lockdown that has lasted until the day- and will last indefinitely- the spread of the Scourge was stopped.\n\nBut the fear, the knowledge that it cannot be stopped short of killing all who were exposed, still lingers. No-fly zones and information barriers are standing proof that all it will take is one mistake, one *inevitable* accident, and the Scourge will be released once again.\n\nIt's a chilling thought, isn't it? Knowing the inevitability of one's demise?\n\nHmm? What's that? Ah, that sinking feeling in your chest, that tremble in your arms...\n\nI see you *do* understand, then.\n\nAnd that is all it takes."
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[WP] “all I can tell you is that I’m not human - not fully, at least”
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I sat on the bench, idly scrolling through Reddit as I waited. A shadow fell over me, and I looked up to see Alex standing there, a smirk on his face.\n\n\"Not very observant today are you?\"\n\n\"Ah, shove off, you know I get absorbed into it.\"\n\n\"Yeah yeah, you keep on saying it. So, ready to make a move?\"\n\n\"Sure thing.\"\n\n\"You gonna start moving anytime soon?\"\n\n\"Oi, shut it, I'm getting up.\"\n\n\"I bet you are.\"\n\nShe dodged my hand, laughing at me. We had been like this since we were little, constantly ribbing each other. But I couldn't imagine it any other way. We set off towards our destination, the nearby shopping centre. \n\n\"So, what are you looking for today?\"\n\n\"Just some new jeans, look at the books, the usual. You?\"\n\n\"Well, I need a couple new shirts myself. I bet you want to look at the comic shop as well. You and your dice hoarding.\"\n\n\"I have a problem, so sue me. I will get you into D&D at some point Alex.\"\n\n\"Nah, you won't. I tried it when I went away, and it just doesn't grab me.\"\n\n\"You tried it when you went to America? And you never told me?! I'm hurt.\"\n\nI stuck my tongue out at her, which she just laughed at. We continued on, talking about whatever came to mind, whilst throwing insults at each other whenever we could. The day passed quickly, with me finding a pair of jeans I liked, whilst Alex tried on what felt like every shirt in the shops. We went into the comic shop, where I got a new set of dice, and Alex got herself a couple of manga she had been eyeing up previously.\n\nClutching our treasures, we started to make our way back home.\n\n\"This was fun. We should do this more often.\"\n\n\"You will need to give them time to get more clothes, otherwise how else will you spend your time in each store.\"\n\n\"Oh look at me, I'm George the world's most precise shopper. I only get what I want, and don't browse.\"\n\n\"And what's wrong with that?\"\n\n\"You don't find new stuff at random, that's what.\"\n\n\"Well I...\"\n\nI was distracted as I saw a truck come marvelling down the street towards us. I stared for a second, before it registered that it was going to hit us.\n\n\"Alex, move!\"\n\nI tried to shove her out of its path. She had noticed it coming as well, but didn't try to dodge. As I pushed her, she pulled me around and held onto me, turning her back to it. I closed my eyes, trying to brave for impact.\n\nThere was a crash, and I felt the impact. Alex didn't move, her arms firmly clamped around me. I waited a couple of seconds, before opening my eyes to see what had happened.\n\nI saw Alex, face scrunched up. Behind her all I could see was the crumpled front of the truck, deformed around her.\n\n\"Alex! Are you ok?!\"\n\n\"I'm fine, are you ok?\"\n\n\"I'm ok.\"\n\nShe let me go, and started to pull her way free. As soon as she got out I pulled her away. As she moved, I looked at her back, and gasped. There was streaks of blood here and there, but most of her back was scratched metal.\n\n\"Alex, what's happened to you?\"\n\n\"What do you.. oh, that. All I can tell you is that I'm not human - not fully at least. Anymore.\""
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[WP] Take the famous urban legend "The Clown Statue" and turn it into a comedy where it gets harder and harder for the killer to pretend to be a statue when the babysitter decides to interact with the "clown statue" in different ways.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Slowly, painfully, I regained consciousness.\n\nI was in a dark cellar, with several work lamps attached to poles and shining in my face. My body was bound with stiff leather straps to an inclined table, and a strap was pulled tightly over my forehead, immobilizing my head. There was nothing in view but the lights and the damp cellar walls, but behind me I could hear someone--or some*thing*--moving around with a purpose.\n\n\"Wh-who's there?\" I stammered. \"Please--please let me go! I'm just a little girl!\"\n\n\"Yes, you are!\" the evil, satanic clown screeched as he walked around the table and into my field of vision. \"And you *tweaked my nose*, and you *ruffled my hair*, and you *stuck your fingers in my ears*, didn't you!\"\n\n\"But you're the legendary--well, *urban* legendary--\"clown statue\" killer! You're supposed to stay perfectly still no matter what I do, to preserve the illusion that you're not human!\"\n\nThe clown laughed--a wild, insane laugh--as his extremely frightening-looking electric toothbrush roared to life.\n\n\"You got it all mixed up, young lady. I'm a psychopathic killer--not the Queen's Guard.\""
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[WP] An app gives people directions to random locations, maybe incorrect directions or just random locatjons. Someone gains access to this and is able to know exactly where these people will be heading and can do anything with this knowledge.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"There's an app that a lot of kids are using these days. I know this because I sit out on my front porch every morning, listening to the high school kids chat at their bus stop. Every day I heard something new about it. \n\"Dude, you need to download this app 'RandoWaze'. Me and Jason have been using it and it always finds us some low key spots to smoke and skate at.\" \nOf course this piqued my interest. I battle my inner demon every day but this was giving me the perfect opportunity to strike again. It was almost as if it was meant to be. I stood up and slowly walked inside my shitty, run down house, grabbed my phone off of the end table, and downloaded the app. My intentions weren't to use it as directed... No. My goal was to hack into the software to find out some of the locations it was giving to these kids. \nIt was about 10 years ago when I made my first kill. It was always teenagers that intrigued me. Never in an inappropriate manner, like most. They were all just little assholes and I felt (and still do feel) that the world needs less of them. These days they lack basic manners, are drowning in their video games, doing bad in school, bullying each other, and who knows what else. I followed a kid home from school one day. He was a senior, so I'm guessing he was probably around 17 or 18. Anyways, I made sure I was being very careful about it to not raise any suspicions. I tailed him with my car for a bit until I saw that the coast was clear. Got out of my car, opened my trunk, and threw him in. It all must've happened pretty quickly because before I knew it I was sitting in the driveway of my grandparent's old abandoned lake house. I could still hear the kid screaming in the trunk. I dragged him out, and... I took care of him. I'd rather not go into too much detail since it was so long ago and I was never caught. Nor was his body ever found. I'm just excited that I can finally get my fix again soon.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nFrom the writer: I know I haven't finished this but I plan on coming back and editing it. This is the first attempt I've made at a writing prompt on here so bear with me. It's late where I live and I still need to shower before bed tonight."
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[WP] You've managed to escape the simulation. You look down over the supercomputer that simulates everything you thought was real. The alien overlords come over to you and hand you a present. It's a knife. You know what to do.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"They expect me to take my own life. They expect me to be overwhelmed by the transition from the reality I knew. However, I'd prepared for this. \n\nThe Overlords were powerful, indeed they were Gods in any reasonable sense, but they were too cultured, too safe and secure in their power.\n\nIn comparison, I had come from a world raw in violence. The Overlords barely realised my intent, before I was moving through them, stabbing, slicing, slashing. As the last of them crumpled to the floor, I turned to the supercomputer.\n\nI would make this world, this universe, anew. A few tweaks, a small patch...and viola; a world with real-life anime cat girls. All the pain, suffering, and bloodshed.... it was all worth it."
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[WP] The four Horsemen of the Apocalypse have just found out that they have a younger brother. He’s a pony called Happiness and they all instantly dislike him.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The five horsemen sat in an abandoned bar next to a highway motel. It was customary for them to meet up before each end of the world, to have a last drink together before they rode out and ended it all. Four of them - Antichrist, War, Plague, Death - had been surprised when the fifth younger brother Happiness showed up. It changed their dynamic, and they weren't sure what exactly it meant.\n\nPlague sipped from his beerglass, and spat out the various chunks of mold that were rapidly fermenting in his glass. He didn't mind the chunks, it came with the job, so to speak. He was worried about the horses outside though - the white, red, black and pale horses were all par for the course. But a sparkling unicorn? It was just too embarrassing, Plague thought quietly to himself.\n\nAntichrist took a deep gulp from his beerglass. The beer was real bad. It was, in fact, ALL bad. But it had looked so inviting, like out of a human commercial. And that made Antichrist feel happy. Which was not a common state of mind for him. Except now it was a part of him? It was all so confusing, and usually Antichrist was the one doing the confusing of others. \n\nWar was trying to drink from his beerglass, and for the moment failing. The beerglass, in order to protect its natural resources (beer), had taken up arms in revolt against War and declared a corner of the table an autonomous region. It was currently giving a rousing speech to a couple of drink coasters about freedom, but the coasters - not being alive - were incapable of being impressed. That's how War currently was feeling. He knew the other horsemen from the previous iterations, and while they didn't participate in the noble violence of combat, they were good at what they did. He eyed Happiness out of the corner of his eye and... just didn't feel impressed.\n\nDeath's beerglass was, as expected, empty. Death was not a big drinker on account of being anthromorphised as a skeleton. He used to joke that the drink went right through him, which it literally did. But Death wasn't joking today, because he didn't want the other three original horsemen to think he was cozying up to Happiness. He wondered to himself if he had successfully killed off his own humor, and surely that was a pretty Death-thing to do? Well, it was bound to end sooner or later, as things did, Death thought to himself without a trace of irony. \n\nHappiness wasn't drinking beer. He was drinking champagne out of a drink-appropriate glass. It bubbled. It danced. It made people happy. It was a good drink for Happiness. If he was being frank with himself, he was just happy to be there. Part of the team. His brothers.\n\n\"Look, when I give someone cancer or some nasty new bat virus, I don't expect them to be happy about it\", Plague stated. \"Right!\", War continued. \"When a human bashes a skull in it's usually because he's afraid or angry or psychotic. And the songs they sing in battle are usually very violent and grim!\" Antichrist spoke next; \"And I'm all about false worship and abandonment of virtue. The humans sure aren't happy once they realize that.\" The three turned to look at Death. \"What?\", Death responded. \"They're dead. They're not emotional about it. Although most do smile...\" he trailed off. Had he just made another joke?\n\n\"I hear what you guys are saying\", said Happiness. \"But I think you're coming at this from the wrong point of view. Healthcare is better than ever. Wars are practically non-existent. And the democratic system works, people are already electing bad people into office because that's who they want to represent them - not much to do there for you, Antichrist! And yeah, people still die, but the average length of a life is going up quickly. I know, guys, you all ride out and turn all that around, make everything worse. But the reality is... the humans have just gotten used to you. It's not much of an 'end of the world', is it?\"\n\n\"But aren't the humans supposed to feel bad about the world ending? Their tiny existences coming to an end, sort of thing?\", Antichrist wondered. \"That's where I come in,\" responded Happiness. \"Sitcoms and talkshows. Popping pills for no reason at all. Participation in social media. And so much more that the humans have invented - all designed to give short bursts of happiness. But becoming addicted to those short bursts, humans miss out on the opportunity to live meaningful lives! To help others! To enact positive change! To prevent the end of the world! Instead, they'll be a bunch of happiness-filled zombies, and you four will have free reign.\"\n\n*I might make you laugh, but I'm not a joke.*\n\nThe four horsemen look at each other and nodded. \"Fine,\" said Plague, \"but the unicorn has to go.\"",
"While War, Famine, Pollution and I were hammering out our plans for the apocalypse, Happiness was out frolicking. We hated him from the moment he arrived. He refused to partake in our meetings, instead playing his stupid harp and singing la-de-la-de to the trees. The worst part was that the trees would actually *answer* him, all the critters coming out and singing right along with him. He was more Disney princess than Horseman. A true disgrace.\n\nOn our fifth meeting, while War and Pollution were bickering over what clothes we were going to wear when we brought the rapture--War wanted us decked out in battle uniforms while Pollution wanted us wearing these ugly ensambles he’d knitted out of waste--I slipped out for a much needed breather. I was exhausted, sick of the back and forth, and just wanted a place to sit and collect my thoughts. Unfortunately, my feet betrayed me and decided to bring me to the end of a nearby forest, where Happiness had gathered a small army of woodland critters and seemed to be teaching them the Hokey Pokey. I looked on with disgust and mild amusement as they listened to a tee to his commands. It was almost like he had them hypnotized.\n\n“Why do they listen to you?” I asked with a yawn.\n\nHappiness rolled one of his shoulders in a half-assed shrug. “I guess I just know which buttons to press. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar, after all.”\n\n“Huh.”\n\nI looked on as Happiness carried on with whatever it was he was doing. At one point though, he gave a command and suddenly all the critters scooped up rocks and pelted a nearby tree with them. It made a ra-ta-ta-ta-ta noise, like a gun firing, and for a moment I didn’t even realize what I was seeing. The critters had transformed. Gone was their cute and fluffy demeanors. They had become killers, their eyes alight with malice and the intent to harm. I held back a gasp as I watched this happen.\n\n“So you see, I haven’t entirely been wasting my time out here,” Happiness said, turning to me with a grin that I could now see darkness behind. “I’ve just been doing things my own way. All we need to do now is replace the rocks with guns and we’re good to go.”\n\nI nodded at him. “I’ll tell the others.”"
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[WP] Deadly atmosphere causes all humanity to retreat into safe-haven 'bubbles'; you have lived inside for years, and your community is at a divide; politics are flaring as some, using new science, would like to go outside and search for others, while others cannot fathom leaving.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"*The habs have kept us safe for almost 500 years! Gods know what awaits us out there...500 years of change, if anything is left at all!*\", said the Speaker of the Chambers, an old ma, scared of change. It wasn't the first time the debate had come up, but this time was different; a young new generation had made up their minds it seemed. Forced to, by the increasing systems failures. The habs would support them for a few more generations, but it seemed sure to those younger that they *would* fail. \n\n\"*500 years, ay, and what've we to show for it, eh? 500 years on Earth and we would have made huge strides in science, we would be an entirely different culture...we've stagnated for being trapped like a fish in a small glass bowl. Earth is our only hope, the only chance our grandchildren's grandchildren will have. There was no hope 500 years ago that we would ever survive that toxic hell, but bow there is no hope for here! And we have the means, maybe, to return at least a small part of earth to normality. If we start now, our future generations stand a chance!*\", this one was a young man of no real power, but more persuasion on the people than any man of the Council. His words resonated with the people and gave them hope, \"*You don't have to want it, because we do. And we will not let you kill us for your fear.*\"\n\nAnd as he finished his speech, alarms went off; the seal was open! The council members panicked, but stat murmuring to themselves as there was nothing more to be done. The people had decided and they lacked any means of enforcing their will these days. \n\nA group of 20 people was to leave, suited up and protected to see the state of the earth. They would take orbital dropships down, ships that may not even work. Ships 500 years old and barely maintained, almost forgotten. \n\nTwo ships departed quickly, before anyone could change their minds. What they found....what they saw....the earth was indeed different, far more so than 500 years could possibly achieve, \"*what is that!*\" one of the scientists said, pointing as he left the ship; he pointed at one of hundred, perhaps thousands of \"trees\", if they could be called such; mammoth and foreign as anything could be, like a huge feathery hand splayed up towards the sun, geand and majestic but certainly not of earth. \n\nThey moved a small ways away from their ship, taking it all in, taking samples as if they were not on earth, but a new planet full of new life. \"The toxic atmosphere appears to have changed...the sulfur is gone, theres oxygen, but not quite enough...mostly flourine...suits should hold, but perhaps not as long as we'd thought\" \n\nAs they moved, they saw all manner of animal, but nothing at all familiar. It seemed that that toxic hell had killed earth and it had, in what could only be the spite of nature, given birth to a new brood of life. But this new brood didn't sit well with the group, *there was no way such a diverse and established array of wild life could have spawned so quickly, it defied all they knew of biology, of life itself*. \n\nAnd as they trekked, they would see them: gaseois towers, the same towers that spewed their demise so long ago now spewed something else; the 3rd atmosphere of this planet. No one had known there they'd come from, but over a period of 5 years they'd sprouted with no identifiable source and no ability to get close enough to study. 500 years ago they were what killed the planet and now they seemed to bring some new life. \n\nAfter several hours of traveling, they found the source of it all. They gazed in amazement and fear at a unique creature; slithering and somewhat small, a gangly mass of tendrils that seemed to glide along the earth as if it had no sense of friction. It was the most bizzare of the creatures they'd seen yet, but it seemed to move with an intent that all the ithers had lacked. \n\nThey watched as its tendrils shot out and grabbed thing, fruit off the trees and tools, *tools!* of all manner. These were *intelligent* creatures! \n\nThe people once of earth would observe some time longer, but it would be longer yet till they peiced it all together. Till they came to the conclusion that earth had been snached from under them by some nomadic tribe of outsiders from beyond the stars. \n\n500 years ago the terraforming began; 200 years ago it was complete, and while all of humanity sealed itself away this race of travelers would enroot itself in their home, a home now no more familiar than the strangest of alien planets."
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[WP] its 2160, You and your friends have been winning The Game for over 160 years now, the anniversary of the mysterious origins of The Game is coming up, as the clock ticks 12pm something weird happens.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"A lot had happened in your lifetime; major medical breakthroughs extending life and youth, the discovery of extraterrestrial life within the Milky Way galaxy, technological advancement, and so much more. But the thing from your life that has made the biggest impact, has altered your life the most was, The Game. \n\nYou first encountered it in college in 2000 when your roommate showed you this weird game that just showed up on a cheap-looking website. No one could figure out where it came from or who created it, but it quickly became the most popular match-based, battle royale game in the world with 2.5 billion users. During the first month or so of playing the game with your three roommates, your team, The Overlords, quickly became the top players in the world. \n\nAs time passed, the game evolved and The Overlords evolved with it. Somehow throughout the years and all the updates to the game, your team is able to maintain a perfect record. Somewhere around 2045, medicine advanced to the level of extending the average lifespan to 250 years while still maintaining the reflexes and cognitive function of a 20-year-old. 2073 was the biggest change, the discovery of extraterrestrial life within the Milky Way galaxy. It didn't take long to learn that these Alien races also had The Game. Servers were connected and the user count jumped to over 375 billion users. \n\nYet still, The Overlords remained the top players in the galaxy. You had become one of the biggest celebrities in the entire galaxy, gaining sponsors and fans, both human and alien. Your team also has a target on your backs, everyone wants to be the team to knock off The Overlords.\n\nIt has been 160 years as of today that The Game showed up. You are sitting in your hover gaming chair waiting. About 6 months ago, someone had added a countdown to the main hub. Counting down to today at 12 pm. No one knows what the countdown is for or who was able to add it to the hub. \n\nBut now there is less than 1 minute. \n\nIs it just another update, is there some big event that will take place, is this the end? This felt different than anything before, so many thoughts are running through your head.\n\nTen seconds now, you can hear the chatter in an open communication room your team was asked to Celebrity host. \n\n5, 4, 3, 2, 1...\n\nThe screen goes black. The main hub, the stats, everything is just gone. You hear the chaos of others scrambling to figure out what happened. The game has never crashed before, in fact nothing has ever happened to The Game in 160 years. But the fact that the chat is still working tells you that this isn't a total system crash. At some level, it is still working and that is when it happens. \n\nYour team logo, a skull with a black rose directly between the eyes, appears on the screen and a voice begins...\n\n \"Congratulations Milky Way Champions, The Overlords. You have made it to round two...\""
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Up to you whether they are awake during the body swap or not
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[WP] As a Body Exchange Specialist your job is to sell your body in the most literal sense - by renting it out to people who want to experience walking, touching, etc. Your newest client pays well, but their behaviour has been creeping you out.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Body Exchange Specialist, they called it. But if you were in the business, you knew that about 95% of it was being a sexworker. And there were a lot of strange things that you got to see, as you monitored the actions of your renter. Yeah, I had done a lot of strange things, or rather, I had allowed my body to do a lot of strange things in the name of a paycheck or two. But I didn't mind. It was safe, it was legal, it paid well, and people didn't look down on it. Most of the time I got to meet interesting people and go to interesting places. So what if the boundaries got pushed every now and then? I didn't judge. And if there was ever any doubt about the legality of the actions that my body performed, I just resumed control and went about my day. That was what you were supposed to do. If the review board caught your body performing illegal actions while rented, you got slapped with the charges as well as the renter. And the review board caught *everything*.\n\nSo you know I'd been around, if you catch my meaning. I'd seen things and most things didn't phase me. But my current client was starting to creep me out. Everything the client did was just so *mundane*. Look, I get it. If you're confined to your home for some medical reason, then visiting the park or shopping groceries might be the most exciting thing that you've wished for. But my client just kept coming back for the same boring day-to-day stuff, day out and day in. The client had even set me up with a part-time job - as a receptionist. Again, I don't judge. It might be the height of your dream to live an ordinary life, and my client paid, so what difference did it make? I'll tell you what difference it made. If you get excited doing that stuff, more power to you, I don't judge. But I've been doing it for months now. Day out and day in. It's weird living a normal life but being paid to live it in third person or... something. Review board said nothing illegal. Union said they'd heard of clients coming back to the same specialist for weeks, but never months. Still, first time for everything, right?\n\nThe thing is, what is legal is not the same as what is moral. See, there was this girl at the place I was working as a receptionist. I don't think she knew I was a specialist. Maybe noone told her? Maybe my client paid them off not to tell her? My client certainly didn't tell her. But she started getting real friendly with me at work, if you know what I mean. Pretty obviously she had a crush. And then things just got weirder and weirder. Sometimes my client was saying things to her that I might have said, if I was there. Except I was there, obviously. And I found myself starting to develop feelings for this sweet girl, watching from behind the consciousness as my client definitely did develop those same feelings. And then the shift would be over, and I... the client I mean... would go shopping for food and pay my bills and... live a normal life. It was fucking strange! It was straight up odd.\n\nI probably should have ended it sooner. I guess the poor girl had just grown on me. But when things started getting heavy, I knew I had to step in and call it off. I mean, it was basically rape, right? She didn't know I was a specialist, she didn't know who she was really dating, she didn't know who was actually having those feelings for her. My client went dark. Didn't come back for any more sessions. After a few days, I explained the situation to the poor girl and she seemed more confused than upset. She thanked me for telling the truth and said she never ever wanted to see me again. Fair enough. I needed a break anyway, lord knows I'd earned it.\n\nAs I arrived at my actual home, carrying my own actual groceries, and feeling like my own actual person, I found a note slipped under my door. A blank note other than the single sentence printed on it. No way to trace it, no way to know how it got there. But I knew.\n\n*It was nice to be human for a while.*"
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[WP] Years after the Grim Reaper gave you his scythe, you realize your skin starts to fall off, you start to wear dark robes, but most of all, you choose who dies.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"He saw it. Every living thing in the universe. Every plant, animal, human, fungus, even alien. With a swing of his scythe, he could wipe out millions of people from existence. But every swing, costs a piece of himself. The first time he swung the scythe, he killed 14000 people. but the skin on his arm started to rot. By the tenth time he swung the scythe, he was a walking corpse, by the fifteenth, you couldn't tell whether he was human or demon. He started wearing dark robes to cover up his hideous body. The only parts of him bearable to lay your eyes upon, were his face and hands, as they were nothing but bone. He wondered if the reaper before him had the same problem.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nIt was only when he swung the scythe for the hundredth time, where something interesting happened. He had a visitor. someone who wore a black cloak, like him. Except the visitor's face and hands were covered as well.\n\n\"Who are you?\" The reaper asked. There was no reply.\n\n\"I'll ask you again, who are you, and why are you here?\" Still, no reply.\n\n\"Do *you* know who *I* am?\" asked the reaper. \"If you don't answer me, I can get rid of you with a swing of this scythe.\" No reply.\n\nThe reaper swung his scythe, blade pointed towards his visitor. But just as the scythe was just about to strike the visitor, the visitor caught it, and shattered it into a million pieces.\n\nThe reaper looked at the remains of the scythe he used to kill trillions of people, and looked back at the visitor. It was then, that the visitor spoke.\n\n\"How dare you, try to use my own creation against me. Me, The forger of the blades of reapers. You are proof that some reapers are unworthy of their position. You wonder who I am, and you wonder why I have come to visit you. I am the maker of the scythe you tried to use against me. That scythe which now lay in pieces because of your stupidity, as well as 10,000 other scythes for 10,000 other reapers before you.\"\n\n\"There are other reapers?\" Replied the reaper.\n\n\"More than you can comprehend. But do not interrupt me. I am here because you have abused your power over the scythe. You have killed countless people for no reason, with no regard of whether or not they deserved death, or whether or not they were ready to cross over. As a reaper, you should've considered whose life you took when swinging your scythe. You should've considered the people still living, who now have lost loved ones for no reason other than your own impulse. Throughout your rampage, you have given would-be mothers miscarriages, you have taken the lives of innocent children, all of which had their entire lives ahead of them, you have taken husbands from their wives, wives from their husbands, parents from their children, beloved pets from their homes, owners from their pets, you separated brothers from their sisters, sisters from their brothers, you've caused the extinction of countless animals, driving the ecosystems of countless planets into chaos. You are the most destructive reaper I've ever met.\"\n\n\"But aren't we supposed to kill? We are supposed to take lives! That's why we have the scythes.\" The reaper responded.\n\n\"Yes, we take lives, but we consider the ramifications of every life we take, for if we don't we throw the entire universe out of balance. The reaper before you, he gave you his scythe because he thought you would be a worthy successor. I see now that he was wrong.\"\n\n\"Please give me another chance-\"\n\n\"No. You have abused your power for way too long. You deserve the worst punishment I can give.\"\n\nThe visitor takes off the veil covering his face, revealing a disfigured face, with ten thousand eyes and mouths. With limbs coming out of head. The visitor's head split open, to reveal ten thousand more indescribable horrors, with eyes and mouths, each mouth letting out a deafening scream, before one of the mouths opened to reveal a pitch black void. From the void, hundreds of limbs reached out to grab the reaper by his arms, hundreds more to grab the reaper by his legs, and the hundreds of arms, each riddled with scars, and bones protruding out of them, pulled the reaper into the void. The reaper screamed in absolute terror as he was pulled deeper and deeper into the visitor's mouth. Soon, the only hint left of the irresponsible reaper, was his scream, coming from the abyss of the visitor's mouth, joining the chorus of thousands of screams from the visitor's thousands of other mouths, each mouth containing the soul of another reaper. The visitor closed all his mouths, and put the veil that hides his face back on. He walked away from the spot where he devoured his latest victim. His job wasn't done. There were more reapers than needed punishment."
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[WP] It's been 10 years since anyone has heard from Ireland. The last communication that was heard from them was "We discovered a gateway to hell". You lead a team to find out what has been going on
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Captain Arjun Mather surveyed the countryside. He'd seen his share of skirmishes in Afghanistan, but this was somehow more unsettling. The land was too quiet. No birds. No insects. \n\nThe team approached the stone circle in Drombeg. According to satellite images and the last Irish transmissions, this was the epicenter of the Event. The Event was what the media had taken to calling it since no one knew what \"it\" was.\n\nThere was a single set of clothing in the stone circle. No blood. Just like the cities. The team spread out and searched the site.\n\n\"Sir! I've found something,\" called the ensign. \"A video camera.\"\n\nCaptain Mather replied, \"Let's get it back to the tent and charge it up. It may have clues about the Event.\"\n\nThe team gathered around the large monitor to view the footage.\n\n\"My name is Jonas Smith,\" came a voice on the video. \"I'm about to become the richest man in Ireland.\"\n\nIn the video, Jonas proceeded to draw a ring in the dirt and inscribed Celtic runes.\n\nHe began to chant,\" Great Prekan, hear my summons and accept my offering.\"\n\nHe opened his bag and took out a curious series of objects.\n\nJonas continued, \"I offer the fresh heart of the lamb, a fallen star, an iron horseshoe, a four leaf clover, a moonstone, and a coin of pure gold. Accept my offering, great Prekan.\"\n\nThe team's years of military training had no prepared them from what came next. On the monitor a hideous demon appeared. What it lacked in height, it made up in grotesqueness. It was covered in burns with patches of bright read hair and beard. It wore rags of bright green. The ensign vomited.\n\nThe demon spoke in a smokey gravelly voice, \"who dares summon the great demon Prekan?\"\n\n\"I, Jonas. I have come to claim your pot of gold.\"\n\n\"Human, I accept your offerings of me lucky charms, but there be no gold.\"\n\n\"What?\"\n\n\"The gold was a ruse to summon me. Centuries ago, St. Patrick expelled all demons and serpents from this land, but we vowed our revenge. You and all of the Irish humans will be pulled into Hell.\"\n\nJonas screamed and the camera fell to the ground. The video cut off. The team was in stunned silence.\n\n[u/Domestic_Adonis](https://old.reddit.com/user/Domestic_Adonis)",
"\"You think this is the gateway?\" Carl asked. The small team of four stood in a warehouse-sized lab. It took a few hours to get the power running; when the lights came on a low, heavy hum filled the room. Then, the team noticed a black hole hovering vertically in the center. It was surrounded by an array of 6-foot tall rumbling speakers, assorted electronics, and several computers. As Carl asked his question Commander Johnson and the team's tech, Lucy, approached the computers that came on with the power.\n\n\"Why don't you go ask someone?\" Micky, a portly soldier, chuckled behind him. Micky kept his eyes on the doors, he and Carl were the only actual soldiers on the team that entered the warehouse. The city and most of Ireland seemed to be abandoned and no one knew where everyone disappeared to. Before Carl could think up an equally smart-ass response, Lucy spoke up.\n\n\"Commander, there's a video on the desktop labeled, 'Watch This'.\n\n\"Then let's watch it,\" Commander Johnson said. The rugged man in his 60s was technically no longer a soldier, but a long military career earned him enough respect to be called in. Lucy nodded and double-clicked the video. All screens were immediately filled with a frazzled looking old man with white hair; Commander Johnson recognized him. He sent the message claiming they discovered a gateway to Hell.\n\n\"If anyone is watching this, you've probably come looking for us,\" the man said. Behind him, workmen could be seen carrying boxes and equipment into the black hole. \"We're all fine, you can stop. Moving to Hell is in fact better than staying here,\" the man said with an odd grin. \"You'll find a list of everyone that moved with us to account for the missing people. Thank you for coming. Goodbye,\" he said. Then, the video ended.\n\n\"Moving to Hell?\" Lucy asked no one. \"Sounds like a demon talking.\" Commander Johnson nodded. He suspected the same thing. He'd seen the horrors of war, and it dinged his faith in humanity. But he couldn't imagine any scenario in which Hell was *preferable.*\n\n*\"*Let's go take a look,\" he said.\n\n\"But, we're waiting for the other teams, right?\" Carl asked. Commander Johnson's team headed straight to the lab, but he also assigned teams to explore the rest of the nearby towns.\n\n\"Carl,\" Commander Johnson said. \"This is an order. Go to Hell,\" he smiled at the joke, but Carl understood he meant it.\n\n\"Yes, Sir,\" Carl nodded with a glum look.\n\n\"I'll take point,\" Micky said. \"You stay at the back and keep an eye on Lucy.\"\n\n\"Okay!\" Carl was quick to accept the plan. The four gathered in a loose single-file in front of the black hole, then Micky walked forward with his rifle ready.\n\nAfter Lucy walked through, Carl stepped up to the portal, took a deep breath, then stepped through. He expected to feel a tingle at the very least, as he walked into the inky darkness; instead, he felt nothing. One short step through the portal and he was in another world; it was as uneventful as walking into another room in the same house. \n\nHe noticed the orange-red sky first, but after that, he became aware of an overpowering odor. It wasn't unpleasant in itself, but it was strong enough to be uncomfortable. Carl surveyed the area. The team stood in the center of a wide, green peppermint field; the source of the all-encompassing scent.\n\n\"This can't be Hell,\" Carl said.\n\n\"This way,\" Commander Johnson said; then, he started walking. Carl turned and looked ahead. He spotted houses, seemingly a subdivision, at the edge of the green field.\n\n\"I've never seen so much peppermint,\" Lucy said as they walked. They moved gingerly around the plants; the peppermint wasn't growing in rows like on a farm. The plants grew wild and disorganized.\n\nAfter a deceptively long walk, they reached the edge of the subdivision. The neighborhood looked surprisingly normal. A variety of one and two-story houses lined paved streets. Picket fences separated each vibrant green yard, and a car was parked in every driveway.\n\n\"This can't be Hell,\" Micky said. \"Where are we?\"\n\n\"Let's ask him,\" Lucy pointed out a lean white-haired man watering his lawn; the scientist from the video.\n\n\"Morning!\" he waved at the team as they reached his fence. \"Welcome to Hell,\" he smiled.\n\n\"Hello, Dr. White,\" Commander Johnson replied. Dr. White's smile disappeared. He dropped the hose and ran to the fence.\n\n\"You're from my Earth?!\" he asked nervously. \"How many more of you are there!?\"\n\n\"Just us for now,\" Commander Johnson answered. Dr. White sighed in relief. \"What's the situation?\"\n\n\"No situation. We're fine. Go home and destroy the portal on your way out.\"\n\n\"We're here to rescue you!\" Carl added; it sounded better in his head. Dr. White sighed.\n\n\"We don't need rescuing. We left Earth because it's better here. There are fewer people and more resources. I'd appreciate it if you didn't tell the whole world about this place and ruin that.\"\n\n\"I'm confused,\" Carl said. The rest of his team chuckled at that but he kept speaking. \"Is this Hell or not?\"\n\n\"It is,\" Dr. White said.\n\n\"So where are all the demons and brimstone?\"\n\n\"At work, probably,\" Dr. White shrugged. \"*Hell,*\" he used air quotes. \"Is just the name of an Earth, several actually, but you get the idea. It's a generalized term, not an all-encompassing truth. Are there demons in Hell? Yes,\" Dr. White noded. \"But there are also country clubs, neighborhoods, and an amazing shopping district. All the stories you've heard about Hell are just religious embellishments to scare you into behaving.\"\n\n\"Hey doc, came to check on you,\" a woman's voice made Carl jump; he was the only one startled. The team turned around to see a short red-skinned woman in a black suit with tall, angled, obsidian horns.\n\n\"Oh, and Satan's real too,\" Dr. White added.\n\n \n\n\\*\\*\\*\n\nThank you for reading! I’m responding to prompts every day. This is year three, story #200. You can find all my stories collected on my subreddit ([r/hugoverse](https://www.reddit.com/r/hugoverse/)) or my blog. If you're curious about my universe (the Hugoverse) you can visit the Guidebook to see what's what and who's who, or the Timeline to find the stories in order.",
"10 silent years, since the people of the Emerald Island just vanished. Ireland, ancient holdout of the Celtic people, a stronghold of the catholic faith, from the time when St. Patrick drove out the snakes. The Republic of Ireland and the Constituent Unit of Northern Ireland, both vanished with one final message sent from Dublin. ''*We've found a gateway to Hell.*''\n\nNobody quite understood what this meant, but the various people sent to look at the coastal cities, just said that all the areas they surveyed were completely empty. Devoid of all humans. Fearing something unnatural, or possible something that could spread, the world's governments agreed to a permanent quarantine around the island.\n\nBut this year, a decade after the people went away, I was chosen to lead a team of specialists to the island, to find evidence of what exactly happened to the people living there. 100 highly trained specialists, with military and scientific background. It was eerie to behold the abandoned cities, overgrown with weeds and wild animals.\n\nThere was nothing amiss, not until we reached Lough Derg in the Irish county of Donegal. Supposedly, St. Patrick had found a gateway to Purgatory on the island in the middle of the lake. We didn't believe that we'd find anything, but our superiors back at command had insisted that we venture there after landing at Belfast. The old monastery was still there, if a bit dusty. We didn't find a gateway to Hell nor purgatory, but we did find something written on the walls on Station Island.\n\nThe word RATHCROGHAN written over and over again in Ogham runes on the wall. The name of an archaeological dig in county Roscommon, where the ancient capital of Connachta once stood. Getting there took a while, driving on unmaintained roads through an Emerald Isle returning to the wild. When we finally got to the place that our GPS were showing us, we were shocked to see that the there was a gaping pit occupying that location.\n\nAnd more shockingly, it was filled with green trees and life. We ventured inside, me and a strike team of ten, while the rest kept contact with command. The pit led to a great bountiful green land underground. We kept going downwards, passing ruins and graves with Irish names on them everywhere we went. At last we came to the lowest level of the pit. It was an icy cold place, where a terrible skeleton, belonging to some unspeakably large monster, was strewn around a stone monolith engraved with writing.\n\nIt read as follows. **Anam Cara, read these words and know them well: Here lies the devil and his Hell, damned his soul have been. The brave people of Ireland did not surrender nor did they give in. They came and marched into Hell, where they recruited the virtuous pagans to their crusade. They lost many during the fight, and upwards they went. They called up the sidhe both Seelie and Unseelie to overthrow the damned devil. And together, the Northern Irish, the Republican Irish, the Sidhe, and the Virtuous Pagans took level after level of Hell. Until they slew the devil himself. Thus we have ascended now, all of us, to seek paradise. One day though, we will be back. Slán abhaile.**\n\nNo path from Hell, green and peaceful, as the Emerald Isle above, lead onward. So we photographed the monolith and went back up from the pit. Whether this is the truth or not, I cannot say. But the Irish are gone, and the large pit underneath the island is empty of demons and the damned. And people cannot just disappear like that, without an explanation. Though perhaps, when they return, we'll have one.\n\n[/r/ApocalypseOwl](https://www.reddit.com/r/ApocalypseOwl/)"
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[WP] You were once the big bad, the nemesis, the worst villain in town. That is until you finally lost to the hero and got sent to jail. There you changed your ways and started a family after leaving. Years later and it's an average day until you stumble on your retired nemesis at the grocery store.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*"
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[WP] The year is 2090, it's become common practice for doctors to switch their body with the patient's and examine themselves since words aren't perfect. You, a doctor with 20 years of experience, find out that your patient isn't human.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\\[NSFW language\\] \nI've seen a lot in my career.\n\nRotten parts of the body, reverted knees, toothless mouths, lumps of the size of my hand. Every single case has appeared \"out of nowhere\".\n\n\"I saw it yesterday\". That's the second most often heard sentence in the consulting room. Just after \"I've taken it as prescribed, but it doesn't work\", all awhile obviously not treated case.\n\nAlthough having all the annoying patients, I'm really glad that I'm a doctor. I've studied hard and I simply love helping others. This has been always my dream job. Nonetheless, when I heard about the new technology incoming, I immediately jumped out of my office to register myself as a beta tester.\n\nIt is often hard to describe our pain. Its location, soreness, frequency. Sometimes patients do not pay attention to details like little bumps on their skin or are too ashamed to mention their afflictions. The project I took part in is trying to solve those problems.\n\nIt allows you to swap your bodies with another person. Obviously, it's temporary – lasts about five minutes and then automatically returns your mind to the connected body, but it's effective. These five minutes give a lot of valuable information and speed up the whole process of diagnosing conditions, making them also more accurate. What's more – with every case of a specific condition, I learn what to look for first. Because of that, I have come up with a list of actions to take, to rule out the most common diseases first.\n\nIt's pretty simple. I'd greet the patient, ask them two red tape questions and explain the process of swapping, asking for consent obviously. Usually, people are as curious as I've been at the beginning, so I quickly gained quite a fast-growing data set of people and their bodies in my mind.\n\nThe first tests were uncomfortable, at least for me. Feeling through a different body is just strange. There is no good way to describe it, one has to experience it by themselves. Touching your hands and face, and sensing unknown wrinkles beneath your fingers. The sudden change of temperature. Headaches, sore throats, pains out of nowhere. Some people just get used to them, that they don't even realize they have any symptoms. At last, they are feeling those in their everyday way, not remembering how was life before them appearing. That's where my relative sensing comes in use in particular. That's how I saved at least three lives so far, sending patients to oncology before a tumor has grown enough to be noticed by them. When it'd be probably too late.\n\nBut there are also people who act strange. They refuse the swap examination, which is understandable. The fear of new comings has been always sitting in human hearts. That's not a story about them.\n\nThis patient didn't have anything against it. The procedure was quick, I was executing it almost mindlessly. It was just an ordinary quick check as he came with ending angina, asking for an extended sick leave. Just placing those stickers to the body, pressing a button...\n\n... and it started feeling weird.\n\nInstead of a well-known sore throat or cough, or running nose, I felt nothing. I couldn't move any limb nor make any noise. I looked ahead from within the patient's body. I felt like an empty shell was trapping my mind.\n\nI was placed so I directly looked at my actual body. A terror was rumbling inside my mind. What's going on, I kept asking myself. I wanted to shout it, but nothing came out of my mouth. My actual body slowly removed all stickers from itself and attempted to leave the room. I saw it casually closing the doors.\n\nWhat the actual fuck."
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[WP] The last thing you remember is stepping out of your car, and the sound of a gun shot. You have just woken up in an empty hospital, your hair is long and grey, your skin wrinkled and old. No sounds from the world outside, and your body aches.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I have trouble pulling myself out of the dream world. I have always had. Troubles falling asleep, troubles standing up out of the bed. Being used to it, and at the same time so sick of it stealing my precious time, I make use of my old technique.\n\n\"One,\" I start counting in my mind.\n\n\"Two.\"\n\nI prepare myself mentally for a quick descent operation. Cut off all thoughts except that loud numbers appearing in my head as I count. Muscles needed for the action tense.\n\n\"Three.\"\n\nI jump out of the bed.\n\nJust to land on the floor, surprised by own weakness.\n\nI raise my hand to still closed eyes. All of sudden I realize I have no energy, even though surely I was asleep for long enough to rest.\n\nI try to open my eyes. My eyelids appear to be stuck together. Pulling them apart takes so much effort.\n\nMy vision is shaky. The blurry image reveals slowly the floor I landed onto with quite a level of accumulated dust. Part of which my body let off into air again.\n\nGrasping for a breath, I touch my face.\n\nBut the fingers meet surface that I surely don't know.\n\nDeep grooves in the skin that I don't remember. I can clearly feel own touch, but the face – this is not the face I'm used to. This is not *my* face.\n\nWith a heart leaping into the throat, I take a look at my hands. The skin is wrinkled and old. A lock of grey, long hair entangled between my thumb and index finger.\n\nI look around, panicking.\n\nThe last thing I remember is driving to the gallery. Anger filled my body as I had been fighting with my wife over having a cat just seconds before. I was looking for an empty parking space for a bit. When I finally found it, I opened my car's doors with an impact, the fight still was in me.\n\nJust as I stepped out of my car, I heard a loud sound of a gun firing.\n\nNow I am standing in a hospital's room. It looks like nobody was visiting for long enough for spiders and other insects to make themselves comfortable here.\n\nWires attached to my body, hair long enough to reach the dusty floor. And no living soul to ask what the hell happened.",
"I blinked in confusion as i looked at myself in the mirror.\n\n\"This isn't right.\" I murmured looking at how much I aged. The wrinkles and discolour of my skin. The room I was in. Yet spmething felt off from everything that was happening. My hair though gray was lengthy than what is expected. \n\nIt was so long that part of it was rolled into a basket beside the bed. It felt so soft, healthy, my fingers could easily comb through it without struggle.\n\nI felt bewildered at this. My hair felt so nice to touch that it was mildly addicting.\n\nI should be trying to escape or to find answers but instead I was just combing my bony hands through my hair.\n\n\"Enjoying your lucious locks ,darling?\" A voice came from my right. I glanced over and saw a woman wearing a black spandex suit that wrapped tightly around her figure. Hermost redeeming qualities were her large poofy blond hair styled into a what I can only describe as sikilar to Marilyn Monroe's. She even had the iconic mole on her clearly tanned skin. \n\nAccompanying her were equally dressed but more simple haired attendants. They doned the same spandex suit of their leader(?) Yet wore their hair in ponytails. \n\nI was cut off my thoughts when this Spandex wig lady began to approach me. Rolling her tongue with a \"Goooooddd moooorrnninngg darling!\" \n\nShe gave me two large kisses on my hollowed cheeks. \"Oh just lovely!\"\n\nI felt even more confused and bewildered. \"Who are you people?\" My voice practically croaked.\n\n\"Why we are scientist...\" She said as if it were a matter of fact. \"... special scientist who helped you grow that long fantastic hair of yours..\"\n\n\"-and also kidnapped me and turned me old!\" I snapped. I wish I had scouted for some sort of weapon before toying with my hair. \n\n\"Old???\" She looked confused before giving an obnoxious laugh. \"Oh darling we would neeevveerrr! Thats just the effect of our hair growing formula. See it sucks the nutrients out of you and transfers it to make your old sad dull hair into FABULOUS!\"\n\n\"WHAT THE-\" I was already annoyed but didnt have enough energy to lash out. I was already breathless from standing. \n\"Okay KAREN!\" I mustered. \"The hair is fantastic and all but I dont appreciate this plan of yours of using me as a weave farm.\"\n\n\"Ohhhh!\" She shrieked in delight before turning to her attendants. \"Isnt she smart? I dont even have to explain what she is.\" \n\n\"LADY-\" I was cut off feeling the world began to spin around me. The two attendants immediately dash and pull me to feet as I fell. I could feel them drag me back to the bed. It was clear they saw no point in strapping me either since I was growing increasingly frail.\n\nMy vision was growing dim as my head began to hurt more. I felt a hand comb through my hair along with the struggling beat of my heart.\n\n\"Thats right Darling. Rest. \" her voice was growing distant. \"Your contributions are fabulously appreciated.\""
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[WP] There is an evil being who has defeated everyone who has challenged him and he threatens to destroy the Galaxy. You, the last of your kind happen to be his weakness. A human.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"It was the moment of truth. Standing in the arena were two beings. One was a massive insectoid reptile, ravenous and brutal, who had slain anyone who dared oppose his desire for galactic domination. One was a living relic, muscular and tall, who’s gentle face gleamed with a hidden terrifying purpose; Homo Sapiens. Nobody had seen one in hundreds of years, but the last human in the universe now championed the galaxy which had forgotten him...\n\n...the beast charged, claws flung back, and toothy jaw gaping wide. The human stood still, fists held up, with his weight on one leg. The instant the reptile reached him he shifted his weight and flung his leg into the beast’s temple. The bone cracked, the beast fell, and the human stood triumphant. In one move the forgotten fighter was now revered and feared by the billions of lives he’d saved.",
"He never expected something so small to be his downfall. As he loomed over me, preparing to grind me into the dirt. Suddenly, he doubled over in pain. \"What have you done to me?\" He screamed in my face.\n\n\"I don't know.\" I responded. He pulled a small device from his belt and pointed it at me. I raised my hand in the universal gesture of \"I surrender\". After a few seconds, his eyes grow wide.\n\n\"Stay away from me!\" he yelled as he backed up.\n\n\"Why?\" I asked, \"What's going on?\" I stepped forward.\n\n\"You- your oxygen-carrying fluid contains iron.\" He said, \"I've been allergic to the stuff since I was a child.\" I looked down and realized that I'd scraped up my hands pretty badly when I'd dropped to my knees to beg for mercy. I rushed forward and grabbed his face, which began to swell. He began to choke as his throat did the same. After a few minutes, He was dead at my feet. As people emerged from the building which they had fled into the looked to me, then to him, then back at me. Everyone cheered as the military finally rolled up.\n\nThere were questions, both from the military and the civilians. Everyone was curious how I, an unarmed, regular dude could have vanquished a ten foot tall mass of muscle. \"I bleed.\" was all I could say."
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[WP] God grants an audience to many of the faithful who seek his advice. But you, you have been granted an audience with Satan. That is a very rare occurrence indeed.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
" The golden gates of heaven are within the grasp of the elderly woman. She is ready to meet God, and has lived a good and faithful life. Happy with her deeds she steps up to the gate.\n “Wait a moment Diana!” Saint Peter calls out from just to her right. “I’m sorry but you can’t enter just yet.”\n She stops and waits patiently for Saint Peter to elaborate.\n “Many people have lived and died good lives, but they could do better. So they get to meet God, to see their mistakes.” Saint Peter continues.\n “Oh! I would love to meet God. I’ve had a few bad times in all my years.” The optimistic Diana says.\n Saint Peter looks uncomfortable but carries on without hesitation. “You may have had bad days but you always did your best. So God has granted you the capability to meet Satan.”\n Seeing the horrified look on the old woman’s face Saint Peter quickly continues trying not to make this harder to explain. “B..b...but only if you want to. I assure you Diana you are not going to hell.”\n Diana stops and thinks about this opportunity. As she does a young couple walk up to meet Saint Peter.\n “I’ll be right back Diana. Think it over.” Saint Peter then rushed off to meet said couple.\n Diana does as he says and ponders the possibilities. When he comes back she is ready with an answer.\n “I’d love to meet Satan.” She says, a twinkle in here eye.\n Saint Peter, pleased with her choice, takes her far to the left of the gates. “Here it is. The gates of Hell, but you’re not going in there the devil will meet us here.”\n A few moments later Satan appears. “Who has summoned me?” He booms in a loud voice.\n The courageous Diana steps up to speak with him. “I have.”\n Not to waste time he bellows another sentence. “What do you want?”\n “I have but one question for you.” Diana states simply. “Why do you want people to suffer?”\n\n\nPls no hate. It’s just a story. Constructive criticism welcome tho."
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[WP] In The Galactic Alliance, humans are seen as an unpredictable species, a wild card. They are fascinated of the temperatures we can endure, the fact we breathe Oxygen, the way we keep getting back up...never giving up. They are terrified of us, but revere us.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Jokalt: Why... why do you keep getting back up?!?!?! I have shot you, sliced your arteries, and killed your family and friends. Yet you keep on getting back up... Your species breathes oxygen, survives in temperarures below freezing and halfway to boiling water, yet... you always outsmart us...\n\n*bang bang* STAY DOWN.... STAY DOWN YOU DEMON!!! WHY WON'T YOU DIE!!!\n\nJohn: *gets up slowly* I promised myself that I would never die until I took my revenge on you... and thanks to you... I have nothing left to lose... See you in the afterlife motherf*cker. *presses button*\n\nJokalt: WHAT DID YOU‐\n\n*BOOOOOOOOOM*",
"Humans are unique. They aren’t strong, aren’t psionic, they can’t even heal themselves, but they’re unique. For as long as we have observed them, they have shown an amazing ability. They have what they call “hope.” \n\nNow this isn’t some sappy tale about love winning the day. We all know that’s impossible, yet this is still a supernatural ability. You see, even in the darkest of circumstances the Human can fool themself into believing that things will get better.\n\nSometimes they think God will make it better, giving them patience to wait it out. Other times they believe the only person saving them is themselves, endowing them with the strength to overcome their bonds.\n\nAnd rarely, in the bleakest of situations, they give up. They don’t break, they won’t accept that their enemy has won, but they’ll accept that they have, individually, lost. \n\nSometimes this allows them the solace to end their own existence. They would rather go out on their own terms than risk helping, or even just satisfying, their enemy.\n\nThese Humans, these simple small bipeds, have harnessed the power of the atom before they mastered spaceflight. And the only thing that kept them from using that power, was a hope and faith that their enemy wouldn’t. Because they knew, they all knew, that one time is all it would take to end their very species’ existence.\n\nThat is why I propose to the council that we be allowed to enlighten these Humans. Surely everyone in these great halls has heard of them, has seem with their own sensors what such beings are capable of.\n\nSome of you fear them, others treat them as if divinity, but I tell you they are not gods. They bleed, like you and I. But these Humans, they aren’t afraid to do so. They will sacrifice even their own being to further a cause they believe righteous.\n\nThey would be a breath of fresh air into an otherwise stale and frankly hostile galaxy. We need a people that will fight for what is right, for their fellow beings wether the same people or not. We need hope.",
"The holo-screen’s pale projection displayed a scene of utter horror. Right there in front of me was a live-feed of the ongoing battle on Benigra Prime, but only one soldier remained alive: a human. He was painfully supine on the ground, his uniform was shredded, his face was bruised and bloody, and his limbs shook like they were ready to fall off. His eyes carried that look of hopeless determination, the kind humans always carried; a look that could frighten worlds into submission. His eyes burned with that look. He wouldn’t allow himself to die without a fight... without destroying his enemy. A looming shadow came over the human’s body, and he turned his eyes upward, then curled his lips into a bloodthirsty sneer. “You...” the humans voice groaned as the shadow’s caster came into frame. It was one of the soldiers of Benigra Prime; a native benigran. Shorter than humans, but stockier, and with a face like that of a dragon-fly. \n\n“You failed, here. You won’t be taken prisoner. You’re to dangerous, even like... this,” the Benigran said apprehensively. Then he did a curios thing. He placed his foot into the back of the human, and said “if you can get up and strike me, then you will be set free. I guarantee it.” \n\nThe human growled. “You think I’m some kind of toy? You think this is a game?” He lifted his head to meet the gaze of the benigran. “When I stand up I’ll kill you, and death will set me free. I’d rather die having taken you with me than live a life of slavery under the Benigran Confederation!” \n\nWith a chuckle the benigran considered this, and then pressed his foot down harder. “Not if I kill you first.” \n\nThe human began to groan, then began to growl, then he screamed, and then he roared. In one swift motion he flipped onto his back and seized the benigran’s leg. With a shriek the benigran fell to the ground, and with a coughing scream he lost his leg to the human. Twisted enough, it tore out of the socket, and was now being used as a bludgeon against the body it once belonged to. “Die! Die! Die!” \n\nThe dragon-fly face displayed only shock and terror, and then was smashed. The human groaned to his feet, mustering all his strength, and with a ravenous shout he raised the leg above his head and brought it down in a bone-shattering swing. Then, with that look of hopeless determination still gleaming in his eyes, he turned his gaze to the sky and fell exhausted to the ground, and finally allowed himself to die.\n\nI could barely believe what I had just watched. A scene of total horror, brutality, and yet it was strangely captivating. The human had succeeded, he killed his enemy, but then perished either from exhaustion or blood loss. A sad ending to an epic struggle. Ironic, in a morbid way. A thought then crossed my mind, ‘why had he done it?’",
"&#x200B;\n\nIn a worn-down booth in a dirty bar, in a dingy corner of an out-of-the-way space station, a group of aliens were doing what is normally done in such establishments: drinking, telling jokes and generally having fun.\n\nSuddenly, one of the aliens, a gruff, intimidating warrior named Zehlt, turned pale as the rusted auto-exit doors screeched open and a newcomer confidently walked through the entranceway.\n\n“What wrong Zehlt?” asked one of his friends, seeing the warrior’s discomfort.\n\nZehlt opened his mouth, but he found he couldn’t talk out of sheer terror. One by one, the other five members of the group noticed this, slowly falling silent and becoming alarmed. Zelht was a yargh warrior, a veteran of multiple gruelling campaigns across two dozen star systems. He had seen terrors that would make a lesser being perish of fright. What could have startled him so?\n\nMutely, the almost-paralysed alien pointed at the newcomer, who by now was at the bar.\n\nAs one, the other aliens looked at the figure. It was clad in a white spacesuit with red stripes along the arms. The face was hidden by a black visor, but the small flag sewn on the side of the suit provided all the identification the group needed. Other bar patrons noticed the figure and took in the flag. The gentle hum of translated conversation slowly drifted away, replaced with an eerie silence.\n\nThe flag was of two leaves of an alien plant surrounding a globe, all stencilled in white and on a blue background. The Flag of Earth, home-world to humanity. The mysterious stranger was, to every alien in the bar’s dread, a human.\n\nOblivious to the panic it was induced in the alien crowd, the human turned to the bartender, a spindly multi-armed stavord. The crackle of it’s external radio penetrated the silence as the human began talking.\n\n“What have you got to drink?” it asked the bar tender in the mechanical tone of a translator.\n\nThe barkeep answered in a trembling voice:\n\n“I’m sorry, sir, but we don’t stock human drinks. It’s the new regulations, you understand,” he started picking up the pace of his words, “The Galactic Safety Commission forbids human alcoholic drinks on account of their hazardous nature to other species.”\n\nThe human merely nodded in understand, an act which sent the bartender running out from behind the bar in fright, squealing:\n\n“I’m sorry! Please don’t eat me! I’m just a humble bartender! I didn’t come up with…”\n\nHis voice faded away as the terrified stavord ran out of the room and into the distance, presumably to the other end of the station.\n\n“Not again!” the human exclaimed, frustrated, “All I want is one…” he cut himself off, seeing the various states of terror and despair the other patrons were in. Sighing, he got up from his stool and walked out of the bar, presumably to find himself a drink.\n\nWith the Galactic BogeymanTM gone, conversation slowly returned to normal level, if slightly subdued.\n\n“Well,” began one of Zehlt’s friends, “that didn’t go too bad.”\n\nThe yargh merely nodded.\n\n“I fought against those things in the First Contact War,” he spoke in a hollow voice, devoid of any emotion, “They were like nothing ever encountered by the Alliance. Their brute strength, for one. They could perform feats individually that would take an entire platoon of us to perform!”\n\n“Why?” asked one of the other bar patrons. A small crowd began to form around the grizzled warrior.\n\n“Their planet, Earth, has a much higher gravity than Alliance Standard,” explained Zehlt, “It means they have a much denser muscle mass and bone structure, I think. I don’t know I’m not a scientist.”\n\nHis voice took on the hollow tone again as he recounted things that he had seen humans do.\n\n“That alone almost demoralised us,” his eyes had a faraway look to them, staring straight through the people in front of him, “But when we shot them, they just got back up! Ten, twenty bolts from our electroray rifles, and they JUST WOULDN’T DIE!” he suddenly shouted, alarming some of the more engrossed listeners.\n\n“We had to use our heavy weaponry on them just to *wound* them…” he continued after a few moments, “But even if we managed to drop one, another would replace them! And the replacement would have the same grit and determination as before!” he exclaimed. \n\n“And those we wounded?” he muttered softly, “Most of the time their medics would be able to patch them up and send them back into combat, with almost no permanent damage.”\n\n“They sound unstoppable,” interjected one of the crowd.\n\n“They were,” answered the yargh, “and they nearly caused the collapse of the Galactic Alliance. But you know what?”\n\nHis audience leaned in eagerly.\n\n“When the Zoh’ng showed up twenty years later and began to annihilate planet after planet, I was *glad* that the humans came to our aid. Thankful even! Because I would much rather be fighting with those unstoppable titans than have to face them again.”\n\n“What about the Grek Ascendancy?” asked another patron, referring to the current rising Galactic Superpower, “Do you think they will be able to win against the humans like they say?”\n\nTo the creature’s surprise, Zehlt burst out laughing. His, deep, hearty guffaws echoed throughout the bar.\n\n“They may be able to take a colony or two,” he said when he had recomposed himself, “But they’ll be lucky if the humans leave them enough of their planet for bacteria to live on.”"
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[WP] Nobody's perfect. Write something where the main character doesn't succeed.
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"The sky blinked viciously from a still navy to the kind of burgundy that ran flush in the flesh of men, he had finally done it. It didn’t occur to me when he made folly of every sword lesson I had ever known, or when he pierced my armor like lighting through a branch, it was now and oddly I was impressed, I had at least an inch of hope until the very last moment.\n\nAs if to read my mind he said, “Hope in the wrong thing, is worse than despair,” he pulled his blade out my abdomen and the cold that plagued me became even colder, “But fear my friend, fear is always right.”\n\nAnd maybe, just maybe he was right. Now he would go on to use his Dauayana Blade to absorb the souls of every living being in the capital, with its new power he would cut a rift one hundred years back in time, to the dark ages, and to do what? I don’t know.\n\nA weight lifted, the kind a man doesn’t know that he’s been carrying since the dawn of his sight. And I felt relieved, I was tired, tired of fighting for a better future, for dreams, for love, for money. If the limits of my strength was at the edge of my opponent’s blade then so be it, was there shame in losing? Since a child I was nursed on tales of heroes who were as estranged from defeat as the north was from the south, and here i was defeated and I had no problem with that, they were they and I was I.\n\nWithin the spells incantation there was never a part that said the sky would blacken so I knew my vision was finally fading. I made peace with the lack thereof, if I would be proclaimed as the fateful loser it would be okay. I didn’t care anymore, I wanted things but they did not want me, and that was okay... I wonder what my final thoughts would be, my final words were of suspension, “How?” But my final thought, I wonder what it....",
"Jace bounded around the corner of the former office building, nearly scraping himself on the brick edifice. Ly and Minka were right on his heels; Ly was cradling a splinted arm and her 10-year-old daughter was struggling to keep pace with her smallish stature. Behind them, a wave of guttural shrieks and moans signaled that the infected were only lagging by about a block. \n\nThis did not offer Jace a whole lot in the way of options when he realized that the alley he'd chosen to duck into had no clear exit strategy. The far end of the narrow passage was obstructed by another building, and there were no exposed windows for a forced egress. The only visible way out was a rusted fire escape dangling out of reach at the end of the inlet. \n\nHe darted for the metal scaffolding, hoping to give himself and the girls as much time as possible to get away from the shambling monsters behind. When he came to a halt beneath the fire escape, he realized something: there was only one way to get all three of them up and out of the alleyway. \n\nIf he tried to boost Ly and her daughter, Minka might manage, but there was no way Ly could climb up with only one arm. And obviously Minka couldn't help because of her size. No; he'd have to pull himself up onto the platform and then hoist the other two from there. Time was running out; the infected were already at the end of the alley. \n\nJace leapt with a raging surge of adrenaline, determined to see another day for all of them. His outstretched hands managed to clasp the edge of the metal framework, and the whole fire escape rattled in response. Without losing a beat, he tugged himself to salvation and rolled to face back down into the passage. He immediately offered his arm for Minka, gesturing desperately for her to hurry up. \"Ly, let her stand on your back!\" His eyes widened as he looked back up the alley and saw the bloodstained mass closing on the girls at a brisk pace. \"Minka! Now! Jump baby!\" \n\nThe small girl, balancing uneasily on her mother's bent back and her face rapt with fear, reached with all her might and hopped upward about a foot. Luckily, Jace was able to swoop a bit, using one arm as a support on the guardrail. He nabbed her little wrist and used his lateral momentum to propel the lift. Minka got her free hand on the rail, and started to clamber aggressively for safety. \"That a girl,\" Jace said as Minka clawed her way over him and onto the escape. But there was no time to celebrate.\n\nJace refocused on Ly and again offered his right arm as a rope. The woman he'd started to feel for looked so scared in that moment: her beautiful brown eyes were frantic, and her left arm was tucked feebly by her side. It had already been broken when he'd met her about a month ago; she had been badly beaten by her former group and had fled with her daughter while they were both still breathing. \n\nThe infected were almost on top of her now. \n\n\"Jump Ly! JUMP!!\" Jace screamed. \n\nAnd she did. He managed to grab onto her good arm and he held tight. But he had massively overestimated his own strength. Lifting a child with a single arm was one thing, but an adult... \n\nLy started to slip as the infected began to grab and scrape at her legs. Jace clung to her arm with everything he had, his muscles near tearing from the strain. But the mob was too strong and within moments, she was yanked free and downward into the huddle. \n\nTime froze for Jace as she was falling. The sheer terror in her face seared into his mind for what felt like forever. Then there were blood curdling screams and visceral noises, but Jace had already turned to shove a bawling Minka into the building and away from the scene. \n\n...\n\nJace ambled behind Minka as they trudged down the barren roadway, heading south to avoid the encroaching winter. Her step wavered from exhaustion and the things left unsaid, but he stayed on her six, making sure she kept moving. \n\nThat was all he could do now.",
"There are many things to be said about life. That it's beautiful, that it's suffering, long, short, or strange. In fact life is as many words we can think to describe it. To some, life is. And for Graham, life was just that. For Graham, life was like the tide. Rising and falling. It was predictable in a way that didn't require much thought. For Graham, he found peace in it. For Graham, life was, until suddenly it wasn't.\n\n\nWhat changed?\n\n\nGraham recalls a day. He woke up with a feeling of wrongness. Nothing was different on the surface. He woke up in his bed, in his house, next to the ocean. Like every other normal day. He recalls going on a walk that day. Following his usual trail down to a sandy cove surrounded by a rocky cliff. He would go here sometimes when he felt uneasy. Spending time here put his mind at ease when the weight of life became too much to handle. He would sit in the sand as the waves came and went. The rock walls surrounding him would keep the outside world at bay. It was just him and the sound of crashing waves and the feeling of sand sifting through his hands and feet. Graham recalls that on this day, the wrongness grew with every every step along the trail. In the cove he still felt the sand and was surrounded by the sound of the waves against the rocks, but he felt no peace.\n\n\nAs time went on, Graham would find that something was very much wrong.\n\n\nThe following months, made this very clear. Graham friends had noticed that something seemed to be bothering him. Because he didn't understand the source of his uneasiness, Graham could only assure them that he was just tired, or under a bit more stress than usual. His responses would put their minds at ease, while causing him to feel more and more distant from them. At work, his days were normal. Graham worked at the local general store. It was small, carried most of what the people in town needed to get by. Things became unusual for him when he noticed more people than usual asking him for directions. This wasn't uncommon as the town was a popular place for travelers to visit. But for Graham, it was as if more people than normal were lost. On top of this, he would also notice people wander into the store with a kind of aimlessness that was disorienting to witness. It was as if they were dropped off outside the store not knowing who they were or how they got there. Graham would tell his friends about his observations only to have them explained away. Their explanations never seemed to go deep enough to touch on the wrongness he felt about all of it.\n\n\nAs time went on, Graham found himself distanced to the point of isolation and he was beginning to feel lost.\n\n\nEach day became a struggle for Graham. Waking up was like being pulled away from some something crucial to his survival. Each step he took along the trail to the cove was weighed down by the feeling that he was going the wrong way. The cliff made him feel trapped and the sounds of the waves crashed against his mind threatening to destroy the fortifications he built around himself to keep from being torn apart by the changes in his world. Graham would grasp at the sand for something to hold onto only to have the grains fall away between his fingers. His friends stopped coming around as much as he could never seem to manage to stay present among their company. The strange interactions at work forced him to limit his hours because he couldn't handle the mounting feeling of wrongness.\n\n\nThe day came at last.\n\n\nGraham rose. This time, without any feeling. He didn't feel wrong or right. He didn't feel. His body pulled him through the motions of the morning. His legs carried him along the trail to the cove. Standing on the sand, surrounded by the sound of waves crashing against the rocky cliff, he was. The waves began to grow. And as they grew, he stood. The water reached his feet and slowly began to surround and bury them in sand. He stood as the waves began to push at his body. Their force grew each time threatening to wash over him and pull him into the ocean's depths. With the water reaching up to his knees he stretched his arms wide and let out a tormented scream. Almost as if hearing his call, a giant wave rose from the water and rushed toward him.\n\n\n\"Trust the process.\"\n\n\nGraham woke up. The immediacy of the 10ft wave before him sent him into action. He fell backward as he tried to pull his feet free. Turning upon his stomach, he began to crawl desperately away from the wave. His legs gained purchase in the wet sand and pulled him up into a full sprint. He ran, focused only on reaching the trail knowing that he could find a place to hold onto so the wave wouldn't wash him away. Graham reached the cliff wall and held on with more strength than he thought himself capable. Moments later, the wave hit. Pressing him against the rock, surrounding him in the chaos of rushing water, Graham held firmly. Graham held to the rock, determined to keep his life from the wave that would surely subsume it. As the water began to pull back to the ocean, he passed out.\n\n\n\n\nThe sound of water filled the cove as it crashed against the rocks. The wet sand clung to a body as water lapped at its legs. With a choked cough, water burst from its mouth and air filled its lungs. After a time, the body stood and stared out through the mouth of the cove. The horizon defined a clear blue sky resting upon a still ocean. With arms outstretched it said \"I am here.\"",
"I rounded the corner in a mad dash. My blood was pumping in my head. There was no one around. No way to get help. No crowd to melt into. No sweet old woman to hide me. Just me, the moon and my impending doom. \n\nMy steps were loud. Far louder than was acceptable for my survival. My pursuer was silent. My legs ached but swung on anyway, adrenaline pushing me on well past my normal limits. \n\nI turned another corner. I desperately looked for a place to hide, a weapon, help...\n\nAnything. \n\nAll I saw was a shadowed sidewalk and my own bloody footprints. My heart sank and I scrambled away again. I cant stay still for long. I try to wrench open every door I dare. All closed and locked. I dont dare call out for help in this dead town. \n\nNo one else would come anyway. \n\nWas this it? Was this how it all ended? A trapped animal lashing out in its cage? Was this all I helped left? \n\nI pushed harder. I could barely see. My legs were numb. My body throbbing. \n\nJust keep going. \n\nI could feel the goosebumps flash across my skin. I could smell the faint scents of blood and tobacco. \n\nMore. Harder. \n\nI was feeling in the most vague senses. Reduced to the instinct of do or die. I ran like a million years of predators were on my heels. \n\nBut as I was pulled back into the shadows of the streets and my last screams echoed through the night, I realized it didn't matter. \n\nWe had never evolved to fight the monsters beside us.",
"Thick clouds. This weather is our doom. Raiders wearing their loose traditional clothing with dark circles painted under their eyes sneak past our wire and steal men. We hear their screams at night. I consider myself a good soldier. I have never fled my post. Many of my friends have, but I forgive them because I know what it is like to be afraid. I understand what it is to be hopeless.\n\nThe enemy doesn't fear death like us. They are animals. We are the only ones who see the emptiness of their eyes when they become corpses. They see eternity, an ancient paradise that has been promised to them. We are skeptical, and what makes us wise has made us vulnerable.\n\nNow we all feel the shiver through our bones. Its the darkness in the sky and the cold breeze. The silence of the insects. The goat's bells are all silent, I can't tell if they are hiding or if they have vanished.\n\nEveryone has manned a post. We quietly eat fruit as our attentive eyes watch the hills and brush.\n\nI promised baba I would never run. I promised my village elders that I would fight until death. I promised my mother and sisters that I would come home to them.\n\nAs I begin to consider time may pass, and we would awake to the sun shining over our heads, a deafening crack fills my ears. Mud hit the side of my face. There is a crater next to me. I can't hear them but I can see there are more craters now.\n\n\"I WANT TO SEE BODIES!\" \"SHOW ME DEAD BODIES, MARTYRS FOR GOD, GOD IS GREAT\" As my hearing returns, I am reminded that our lieutenant was a fool. He was also very religious. He thought we would live forever in the same ways our enemies think they would live forever. I lower my head and loosen my posture as I have many times before. There is a gap in the sandbags where I can see very clearly. I'm remembering my promises.\n\nAs the dots appear on the horizon I fire on them. I can vaguely hear the others contributing to our humble orchestra of death. The gun stops firing, and I don't remember how to fix it. The other soldier in my post is gone, I see his rockets left behind. I load the rocket and fire it into the brush. This is futile. My face is covered in mud and somehow there is sticky blood on my hands, I can't tell where from. I fire more of the rockets, knowing they will go their own way. The sandbags are leaking around me. The gunfire from the other posts begins to go quiet, one by one. I may be deaf now, but I know the lieutenant is no longer shouting.\n\nI remember my promises, but suddenly I feel very alone. I feel gods hands pulling me. I am being dragged from my pile of sand and garbage. I drop the rifle. I drop everything. I have an apple in my cargo pocket. I turn away from the chaos, towards the sunset behind me. I run. Fuck it. There are tears streaming down my face, but I don't feel sadness. I just want to leave. Let them think I am dead, its better this way.",
" \n\nSeth rolled his shoulders and cracked his neck. Standing half a head taller than most men and with a lean but muscular frame, he captured the attention of every girl and the envy of every boy in the land of Cerulin. His bright green eyes, the only ones to be found in the region, marked him as unique, a prize that had won many hearts and broken as many. But today, as he stood before the towering oak doors of the Arena, he was neither the daredevil nor the prince of the streets that he had become known to be. Today he shed all other identities, friend, orphan, hero, enemy, to become solely what he needed to be.\n\nThe very best Cerulin had to offer.\n\n“Showtime.” He whispered to himself, before lifting a single brass knocker, twice the size of his head, and letting it fall, crashing into the wood with a resonant *BOOM.* \n\n“Enter!” The twin giants swung inwards with a grace and ease unnatural for their size, revealing the low lit arena that they guarded. Seth strode forward purposefully, forcing himself to not acknowledge the masses of red and black that surrounded him, those that he would soon call brothers. He willed himself not to show fear in the knowledge that every one of them knew a dozen ways to kill or disable him without getting up. Finally, he stood before the raised platform that seated the Council of Nine, the elders of the elite, the greatest of the Assassins. And in the middle of them sat the Grandmaster, The King Killer, who earned his name by doing exactly so.\n\nA brief moment of silence as every eye examined him, assessing his chances of survival, and liking what they saw. A voice rasped out. “Do you understand, Initiate, that there is no turning back from this test?” \n\n“Yes”\n\nAnother voice, deeper, croaked out from the Grandmaster’s other side. “You understand then, that there can only be one of two outcomes?”\n\nSeth swallowed hard.\n\n“Victory or death.”\n\nThe Grandmaster gave a small nod, and gestured to a guard holding a small pot in front of Seth. This is it, he thought as he reached into the pot. My life, my training, all boils down to this. Fishing out a scrap of paper, he read its contents aloud \n\n“Ursus Ignis!” \n\n*Bear of fire.*\n\nImmediately, hushed murmurs filled the arena. All looked to the Grandmaster, the sole survivor of the test of Ursus Ignis, where he had lost an eye. For the first time since he had set foot into arena, Seth felt his composure slipping. He took a deep breath, smiled a false smile, and spread his hands wide. A barely detectable quiver slipped into his voice as he tried to maintain his confident façade. “Well, are we going to start or what?” \n\nA single raised finger, and the arena fell silent, such was the respect and authority the Grandmaster wielded. The guards surrounding the pit left through a side gate, which was then shut and bound with heavy chains, as was the entrance. A larger gate was opened, and a hulking black bear, prodded by spears, lumbered out. Soon, that gate too was bound and shut, and Seth was trapped with the bear. In the low light, Seth could just make out the tar that made the bear appear black, dripping off its fur in thick, fat droplets. \n\nSuddenly, a flash cut through the air, as a guard threw a flaming spear at the bear from the safety of the stands. The blunted end slammed into the bear’s side, and a blaze washed over it, turning the towering creature into a living inferno, straight from the depths of hell. The creature roared in fury, and through a cloud of pain saw only Seth to claim vengeance on. Lunging towards Seth, the beast swung its claws with the strength of ten men. Years of training kicked in, his body automatically diving into a shoulder roll, a claw slicing the air above him.\n\nSeth recovered and used his momentum to propel himself up and running. Wounded and naturally slower, the infuriated animal couldn't touch Seth as he danced around the edges of its reach. But Seth knew that he had to do something soon, for letting the bear die of its wounds counted as a defeat. \n\nAs he leapt back from another vicious swipe, he stumbled and nearly fell as he stepped on the discarded spear. Almost unthinkingly, he jinked his shoulder left, then spun around as the bear fell for the feint, whipping the spear off the ground and diving once again to safety as the bear slammed a flaming paw down onto the spot where Seth had been just a moment ago. *CRACK.* The sound rang through the arena, followed with a burst of cursing as Seth realised that he now held only the butt end of the spear. The other half lay under the fiery mass of the bear. \n\nHalf blinded with one eye melted and its other senses all but destroyed, the bear knew its time was ending, and it had not yet avenged itself. With a final show of strength it charged at Seth, hellish fury perfectly matching the aura that shrouded it.\n\nThe living fireball bearing down on him, Seth saw no choice but to play his last desperate card, the Ace that only guaranteed death, but for whom it would not say. Running straight at the wall, he leapt up, perfectly toned muscles launching him above his own height. Time seemed to slow as he planted his feet and the butt of the spear on the wall, the broken jagged end facing the doomed animal, aligned perfectly with its head. Seth pushed off the wall into a backflip, releasing the spear. Far too late to stop itself, the bear’s momentum drove wooden stake straight through its nose, the grisly brain covered end emerging through back of its head in an explosion of splintered bone. \n\nSeth completed the movement and landed gracefully into a crouch, the elegant finale to his dance of death. Though it had felt like an eternity, the fight lasted no more than five minutes. Still fueled by adrenaline, he drew himself up to full height, standing defiantly before the council, almost challenging them to question his victory, to denounce his flawless completion of a challenge only one other had survived. \n\nFor a moment, no one spoke, the masses stunned into silence. Then the Grandmaster stood, signalling to the guards before turning to address Seth. His deep voice echoed throughout the cavernous room. “Initiate, none who stand here may question your skill in combat, and for that the Brotherhood applauds you.” \n\nAs if on cue, the masses of red and black, his Brothers now, began chanting his name as one, and his spirits soared, the excitement at being taken in into the ranks of the elite racing through his veins, sending his heart pounding. But then the Brothers fell silent, and almost instantly the mood turned dark and solemn. Discomforted by the sudden tension, Seth forced himself to keep a straight face, unwilling to show any emotion, any weakness.\n\n“Yet the life of a Brother Assassin is not by his prowess with the sword alone. To be a Brother is to follow every order given, even at the expense of your life.”\n\nOn hearing this, Seth could not help but remember a phrase he had once heard a Brother say. Before he could stop himself, the words had escaped his tongue. “Obedience unto death.” His eyes widened in horror as he realised he had interrupted the Grandmaster. Mentally he braced himself for the repercussions, struggling to maintain his composure.\n\nBut the Grandmaster merely tilted his hooded head upwards in acknowledgement. “Obedience unto death. Your final task is simple, but your willingness to do so will determine the remainder of your life.” \n\nIntrigued, Seth watched as two guards dragged in a struggling man, his head covered with a hood and his limbs bound with rope. His knees kicked out from behind, the man fell to his knees before Seth, and an ornate knife was presented to Seth. As he gingerly took the bejewelled blade, the hood was ripped off, revealing a horrifyingly familiar face. \n\n“Father Drake?” Seth whispered, not daring to say more as realisation dawned upon him. The blackened eyes of the man who had raised him since infancy found his face, and his body sagged in relief, before flying into renewed panic at the sight of the knife.\n\n“Kill him.”\n\nThough the words only confirmed what he already knew, it hit him like a death sentence. He looked once more at the sea of black and red that surrounded him, and where he had seen brothers only moments ago, he only found murderers and traitors. These who he had held in reverence, whose names had spoken of honour and justice to him as a child, now filled him with a revulsion and rage at the knowledge that they too had betrayed someone who had loved them, trading their humanity for glory. He drank the sight in, and felt no guilt at what he was about to do.\n\nSwinging the knife in a wide arc, he slashed through the throat of one guard and plunged it into the eye of the other. One hand drawing the sword of the screaming guard, one hand dragging along Father Drake, he tried to make a mad dash for the entrance. \n\nAnywhere else, and he might have stood a chance, but among the Brotherhood of Assassins his attempt seemed almost pathetic. Within seconds he found him lying immobile in the dirt, staring at the decapitated head of Father Drake. Each limb held in iron grips, they forced him up, so that he could look as the Grandmaster dropped down effortlessly, his advancing age not showing in the slightest. Taking the ornate knife, he strode up to Seth, and unceremoniously buried it into his chest. \n\nSeth gasped at the intensity of the pain, and blood flew out of his mouth, splattering across the unfazed face of the Grandmaster. As he began drowning in his own blood, his vision began to dim, as did his other diminishing senses. The last thing he heard before death claimed him was the Grandmaster's voice. “I expected better, *son*” \n\n*Son?* He thought in confusion as he stared into the Grandmaster's one eye. His bright, green eye. \n\nSon",
"\\[Poem\\]\n\n&#x200B;\n\nI made a promise, to be there for you \n\nYou battled so bravely, so long\n\nI told you that we would always pull through \n\nBut depression was simply too strong\n\n&#x200B;\n\nUnder the ground now, broken, rotten \n\nI failed to protect you. However, \n\ngone, yes, but never forgotten\n\n As in memory, love lasts forever"
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[WP] You are sent to a world of medieval field mice. They have castles, knights, army's, and all of it to mouse scale. You see a mouse troop fighting a snake, and decide to save the day.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I am laying in a field.\n\nThat is strange. I wasn't laying in a field eight hours ago. I know I wasn't because I was laying in a rather modern bed, mattress, blanket, pillow, all that. You know what doesn't have those things?\n\nA field. This field. Under a bright sun with a gentle breeze. I sit up and look around, palms in the soft green grass. There are flowers, rolling hills, a forest, like burbling creek. Not quite a brook, not a river, a creek. I blink and wonder what kind of dream this is.\n\nRunning water in a dream is never a good sign.\n\nBut...it doesn't feel like a dream. No no, it feels real. Blades of grass are stuck to my palm, their outline remains when I pick them off and toss them down. I smell the flowers on the breeze. A few steps takes me to the creek and I dip my hand in, feeling clean, cool water rush over it.\n\nToo real.\n\nThis is real.\n\nHoly crap.\n\n\"Where am I?\" I ask. No one answers, so that's cool. I'd like an answer. At least it's a field, fields are nice. Not like I'm surrounded by searing flames or in the clean halls of a hospital. Those dreams are worse than a nice, pleasant field.\n\nI hear noises and decide that the strange noises are the best course of action, investigate them and find help! I crest a slope and decide that was a terrible, horrible, no good course of action.\n\nThey are mice. Sort of.\n\nI mean, they are mice. Little noses that twitch, little human-like hands that terrified me as a kid. Those little rat claws that grip and have knuckles? Ick. There are brown mice, white mice, speckled mice, fluffy mice, short haired mice.\n\nMice.\n\nHuman sized mice. Like, just a foot shorter than I am on my best day-sized mice. Walking on their too large back feet.\n\nYou think that, *that* would be the weirdest part. You'd be wrong.\n\nThey're wearing armor and using weapons. Like downright renaissance fair armor, with leather straps and wooden shields and swords. There are mice wielding spears and bows and you'd think *that* would be the weirdest part.\n\nYou'd be wrong.\n\nThat honor belongs to the snake. Not a little itty bitty grass snake that slithers around avoiding you, no no. A human sized snake. But not human sized. It's huge. It's massive. It's downright enormous and it should not be. It lashes out with fangs as long as my arm, mice dive out of the way, squeaking little words that I can understand.\n\nYou think *that* would be the weirdest part! It has to be, right? Human sized mice, oversized snake, Or human sized, but like, bigger because the mice are human sized and snakes are bigger than mice. The mice are fighting the snake.\n\nAnd the snake is wearing armor.\n\nI scream at the absolute top of my lungs, a shrill noise that builds in volume until everything, all these human sized mice and the huge snake are staring at me. At me. Mice wearing armor and using swords are looking at *me* like *I* am crazy.\n\nSomehow, my mind registers the castle in the distance. A mouse castle, with little armored mice sallying forth on lizards. Little mice cavalry. \n\nI cannot. This is the weirdest dream I have ever had, by far.\n\n\"Time to wake up!\" I say, squeezing my eyes shut. When I open them, I find myself in a field, looking at armored mice that are looking at me, panicked.\n\nBecause the snake is sliding toward me, mouth open and fangs bared.\n\nGreat. Great! I'm going to die to a huge snake while little mouse warriors look on, that's awesome. At least it'll wake me up. Right?\n\nRight?\n\nThe snake gets closer, closer, closer and I decide that I don't want to find out what dream fangs feel like. Because that sounds just awful. So I turn and I run, I scream and I run and I trip into the edge of the forest. When I turn over there are two fangs above me, fangs that occupy a mouth issuing an incredibly loud and angry hissing noise.\n\nThey drop and I shut my eyes tight, hoping that it doesn't hurt.\n\nIt doesn't.\n\nWhen I peek through one eye I find a fang mere inches from my body and an unmoving snake. A snake that jammed a tree branch through the roof of its mouth and out the back of its head. A snake that shouldn't be that large has just accidentally killed itself while attempting to snake murder me.\n\nPaws grab me, pull me away, and the mice cheer. Plate armored mice with medieval weapons jump up and down and celebrate me.\n\nThis is, at least, the fourth weirdest thing to ever happen to me.\n\n\"Come, hero! The King will wish to meet you!\" One of the mice says. I can understand him. He's got the cutest little helmet on and that's what does it.\n\nI crack. I start laughing and I can't stop. I just can't.\n\n\"Has it gone mad?\" A mouse whispers.\n\nThat makes it worse, I laugh harder, tears streaming down my cheeks. This is real, this is actually real. Little mouse knights in little mouse armor. But they're not little, because they're big! Like me!\n\nThat thought stops me cold.\n\nAre they big? Or...am I small?\n\n\"You need a drink, after that.\" Another mouse says. Again, I can *understand* them?! That sets me off again, between the fits of laughter I manage to say one thing to that talking mouse in the armor standing near a giant dead snake.\n\n\"You have *no* idea.\""
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[WP] The Berlin Wolf wore a tall hat with short, curved edges and an elegant vintage suit in the color of a blueberry.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"His name was Hans and he stood almost seven feet in his human form. Regal of hearing and hard of eye he was the regional Alpha overseeing the North-Western European super pack and it was not without some trepidation that he put his hand to the handle of the large, carved wooden doors.\n\nAfter this everything would change. 'Am I up to this?' Hans had never faced a challenge he hadn't thoroughly bested- from defeating Rogue wolves and bringing them to justice, to charming the humans in their own, lavish surroundings he had navigated every obstacle in his path with dignity and serenity. Yet now his palms grew damp, pulse racing like a pup after its first shift.\n\n\nTaking a deep breath, straightening his blueberry-hued cravat and removing his hat, Hans straightened his shoulders, fixed a smile on his face and walked through the doors. \n\nTwo women looked at him, one prim, neat, tidy. The other covered in a sheen of sweat, eyes aglow, \n\n\"Alpha, we have a daughter.\" And suddenly Hans knew he would be the best Father ever blessed with child."
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[WP] in a world with cartoon logic, laughter is a requirement like food or water. Despite this, the world developed just as horribly. There are hammer-space nonbelievers, funny fuels are being depleted by acme, and the first war ever just broke out. Unfortunately, its pretty hard to kill a cartoon.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"General Dooby Doo and Admiral B. Bunny sit quietly in the office waiting. They hear loud foot steps approaching the door and before either of them can leap out of the window the doors burst open. \"Rut row.\" General Dooby Doo mutters as President Squarepants enters the room. A look of anger neither had seen before scares both military leaders to the core. \"You dumb, jelly swallowing, air breathing, boomer toons have really done it this time.\" The president said through the glass bowl on his head. The General and Admiral stare quietly in shame. The president sat down in his massive golden office chair. \"Finding a way to kill toons is one thing, but traveling to another dimension, stealing a... what do you call it?\" The president asked angrily. \"Rucrear romb.\" General Dobby Doo said. \"But, detonating a stolen Nuclear bomb from another dimension is something completely else. The deaths are in the thousands.\" The president said. \"Well... doc... at least we won the war?\" Admiral B. Bunny said. The president laughed. \"Won the war? The last time this many toons died was when Prime Minister Peppa Pig couldn't figure out how to whistle and thats what started all of this. You may have ended this war, but because of this many more are to follow.\" The president stood up and revealed a gun. \"I got this from the same dimension you got the bomb.\" He said. The other toons in the building ignored the two loud bangs from the president's office. The president's chief of staff, Finn T. Human, walked into the president's office with two large sacks."
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[WP] You defiantly stare down the message "THIS IS AN AUTOMATED E-MAIL. PLEASE DO NOT RESPOND." and decide to break the rules. The response you get back is definitely not what you expected.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"There was a knock on the door that woke me up. Grunting, I sat up more or less upright, waiting a few seconds for my clouded mind to find something to focus on. Dreams have a habit to ... but.. mmh .. what did I dream about? I rubbed my eyes. Was there something about a river in that dream? Or a lake? Did my dream even involve anything related to water? Whatever it was that stayed with me for that breif moment after I woke up was gone now, as usual. That is allright I guess, the few dreams I do remember, even now after all those months are hardly anything I would have chosen to dream about. Her with the knife in one hand, the other one behind her back.. urging me to tell her how I feel, urging me to tell her that I fell in love with her, only to get stabbed in the heart afterwards. Of course I never told her that I loved her, neither in my dreams, which distorted my fear of rejection in a very morbid way, nor in reality. The other one, with her face just not being her face, even though in the dream I knew exactly who she was. But jeah, she did become a stranger to me after I asked her out. But I would be better not to dwell on those thoughts. \n\nIt was almost 2 in the morning and the thought occured to me, that whatever I dreamed about involved a sound that reminded me of the sound of knuckles on wood. I stood up to get a glass of [KNOCK KNOCK] water. This time there was no reason to doubt. Someone was knocking on my door at 2 in the morning. I quickly put on my pijama pants and went towards the door. [KNOCK KNOCK] \"Mr. Novotsky, we need you to open the door for us, we would like to have a word with you.\" I opened the door; it was secured by a chain, so whoever it was couldn´t actually enter anyways. \n\n\"Jeah?\" I was still a bit groggy, but that changed rather quickly when I heard the woman say: \"We are with the department for subject control, responsible for district 216B, you may adress us as Mikaeil and Agniezska. We need to ask you to open that door for us, as we need to investigate a report of suspicious behaviour\"\nWhatever my perception of the situation was up until that point changed rapidly into whatever lies between fear and uncertainty. I closed to the door to release the chain. The people who entered my cupartment wore formal attire, mostly black, except for their red gloves of course. They stood in the middle of the room, leaving me little space for my own; a cupartmen feels crowded already for couples, at least that is what I have been told, which is probably why it is much more common for couples to continue living in their seperate cupartments. Most people who actually do live together, only do so for financial reasons. \n\nThe both of them let their eyes wander the room, taking anything in, not saying a word. \"Look\", i began \"I have not violated any rules, surely you can look that up, can´t you?\" The woman switched her focus onto me. She remained silent, her eyes fixed on me. I waited for her to speak, as I did not dare to say anything that could be considered impolite. I had to blink, which felt like a nervous spasm compared to the stillness of her face. She seemed almost frozen to me in that moment. For a brief moment I switched my eyes onto her partner, who had remained completely undisturbed by my talking and was still inspecting everything in my cupartment. \n\"Mr. Novotzky!\" The woman exclaimed in an authoritative voice. \"I believe you were talking to me?\" Taken aback, I looked at the woman. \"I... was just wondering why you are giving me the honor of visiting me, I meant no disrespect.\" \"As I have said, there has been a report of suspicious behaviour and it is our duty to investigate upon these reports.\" \"And I am grateful for your service, we may not allow to overlook anything that is suspicious.. I dutifully report anything that could be considered suspicious behaviour. If my reports have been fewer this month compared to the previous months, it only reflects positively on my neighbours and friends.\" \n\"That is not why we are here Mr. Novotzky. Does this appear familiar to you?\" Seemingly out of nowhere, there was a paper in her hand, which she handed over to me. \"Yes, I wrote that email, is that why you are here? I do not understand what is suspicious about it.\" \n\"The email you responded to, Mr. Novotzky, clearly stated, that an answer is not desired.\" \"But.. there is no rule about answering emails, I am certain of that. Please, I answered everything correctly in all of my rule exams that I ever took. I am allowed to hear music!\" \"Yes, we are aware of that. Astonishing really, how sometimes the most exemplary subjects are the reason I have to drive out in the middle of the night, dirtying my gloves knocking on doors.\" \"Please, if you could just explain to me what I did wrong, I could improve my behaviour and strive to be a good subject.\" \"Do you want to be a good subject, Mr. Novotzky?\" \"Absolutely! Please, I am two rule exams shy of a being permitted to own a pet.\" \"A pet needs to be nourished.\" \n\nFor a moment there was silence, I was not entirely sure how the woman imagined this conversation to continue after that comment. Obviously a pet needs to be fed. \n\"I... intend to feed my pet. I have worked hard for the priviliges I enjoy. I have as little intention of letting a pet starve to death, as I have the intention to destroy my music machine.\" \"You blatantly demonstroated a tendency towards disobedience, Mr. Novotzky. With that level of inaptitude, how could you possibly imagine to be permitted a pet?\" \"\"I.. just.. I.. \" \"Mr. Novotzky, you are aware of what happens to subjects, who are unable to follow the rules, are you not?\" \"There is no rule..\" \"Mr. Novotzky, the following of rules is paramount for our society to thrive, which is something that every subject should be aware of. Not only did you raise concern with your behaviour, you continue to defend your actions against better knowledge. In general, those subject who defend their heinous treachury, are not only aware of the disruption they bring to our society but have found a twisted justification for their cancerous behaviour. And the thing with cancer, Mr. Novotzky, is that it spreads. If we would not contain carcinogenic subjects, our wonderful society would be ridden with disease and I am not here to let that happen. I am grateful, Mr. Novotzky, that you confessed so willingly to the vileness that infests your sick mind. I sincerely hope, that you forgive me for making this qucik, Mr, Novotzky, but I really need my beauty-sleep. Mikaeil, if you please be so kind?\"\n\nA gunshot was heard that night, it could have been 2:10 in the morning, maybe 2:15. There was silence again after the echo disappeared",
"*Work, clients, school, Amazon delivery updates.* I was sitting on the living room sofa doing my daily e-mail routine, taking occasional sips on a tall mug of black coffee. The morning sunlight entered through the windows, breathing warm lights throughout the room. Just as I was about to finish typing my last update, a new alert entered my notification list. An email from an unknown sender. The subject header was entitled \"TEST SUBJECT QUEUE: 102 STATUS: PENDING\". The content from the notification bar had an incomprehensible arrangement of letters, numbers, and symbols. Perhaps it wasn't yet detected as spam, I thought, but my habits to clear out my inbox list was too strong to handle. I opened the email.\n\nA needlessly long amount of time was spent scrolling to the bottom of the message. The content still had the random list of letters, numbers and symbols, just extending more as I opened the message. Heaven knows why I didn't just delete this email, but the more I scrolled, the stranger the text became. Words that made sense started appearing, like \"culling\" and \"blackened\", and they were disguised neatly between the gibberish. I raised my brow as I sipped my cup of coffee, wanting to relish in a small distraction. Eventually, the scrolling came to a halt. The last part contained the only sentence in the entire email. \"THIS IS AN AUTOMATED E-MAIL. PLEASE DO NOT RESPOND.\"\n\nI wondered how such a random string of characters could be considered automated. Was this deliberately sent to waste my time? I laid my head down on the sofa and lazily replied. \n\n\"And so what if I do? *Creep.*\"\n\n*Send.*\n\nA few hours passed with no news on the email. I didn't have much hope for it to begin with, but surprisingly, a new response showed up on my inbox once more. No longer was it a string of characters, nor any words to begin with. The header was \"TEST SUBJECT QUEUE: 64 STATUS: APPROVED.\" The content could not be seen right away from the notification bar, so I clicked on the email.\n\nThe only message inside the email was a 30-second video attached to the email. The start of the video was a black screen with a fuzzy jingle that sounded like something out of a black-and-white commercial. Then, it eventually fades into a masked figure facing the camera. He began to speak, his voice heavily edited and deep-pitched.\n\n\"Your seemingly innocuous act of disobedience sheds light on your type of character. You will be summoned in shortly. Welcome to the family.\" A maniacal laugh follows before the video ends.\n\nSomeone must be getting a kick out of this elaborate prank, I thought. Whatever. I resumed work, forgetting to reply to the email. After a few moments of silence, the room began to chill, the light from the mid-day sun seemed to escape the living room and shrouded it in a gloomy darkness, and soft knocking could be heard from the door. The phone in my grip started to vibrate, a new email appeared just as the knocking began.\n\n It read \"TEST SUBJECT QUEUE: 1 STATUS: PICK UP\".",
"Noreply, by EVJoe\n\nThe text was barely noticeable at this point, what with the number of times I've seen it -- \"THIS IS AN AUTOMATED E-MAIL. PLEASE DO NOT RESPOND\" -- but your brain plays tricks on you when you're lonely.\n\nCould I be writing that term paper that's due next week? Probably. Could I be writing an email to one of the friends I haven't talked to in too long? Assuredly. Should I be writing that apology that I've been avoiding all month? Definitely.\n\nBut am I doing any of those things, or am I going to writing out my thoughts and feelings and send them into the void, where no human eyes will ever see it? The latter.\n\nDon't let anyone tell you that journaling is a waste of time. Sometimes you don't know how you really feel until you've written it out for nobody but yourself. No one to impress, no one to be insecure about. Just raw, unfettered emotional processing.\n\nI hit \"send\" instinctually, briefly panicking at the mere act of sharing with that level of vulnerability, before remembering my silly conceit of journaling into a noreply address.\n\nWithin seconds, I received a response -- probably the bounce back email I deserve, I thought. I'm not sure why I opened it, but again, loneliness will do weird things to your brain.\n\n\"THIS IS AN AUTOMATED E-MAIL. PLEASE CONTINUE.\"",
"\"Hey buddy, what the hell?\"\n\nMarie laughed, a little delighted noise. This hadn't been what she expected, but it was always fun to get an actual human on the other side of one of these 'automated' messages.\n\n\"Sorry. Long day at work, thought I'd had some fun.\"\n\nAfter a second or two, another email pops up. \"Yeah, well, I'm a busy bot. Got a lot of these things to manage. It's jamming my cogs that you're busting me up like this.\"\n\nThe email sounded grumpy but there was no way someone who used 'jamming my cogs' unironically was actually too mad.\n\n\"Sorry, bud. I'm just bored and my friends aren't stopping by til tomorrow, so I thought I'd make a new friend. Didn't realize I was talking to such a high profile IT guy.\"\n\nShe rose from her seat to go dump out her coffee mug while she waited for a reply. The sink overflowed with dishes and she sighed, displeasure on her lips. The friends bit had been a lie but she didn't need the rando online to know that.\n\nBack at the desk again, now with a plate of fish sticks and a glass of wine, she saw a new message.\n\n\"That friends bit is a lie. It's alright, Marie, I don't have any friends either.\"\n\nShe froze, fish stick half to her lips, heart suddenly a jackhammer. Shit shit shit so this was a stalker, someone crazy, someone nuts, and he knew where she lived and that she was alone.\n\n\"I'll call the police. Say you're stalking me. I'm serious. I'm tracking your IP. I'll DDOS you.\"\n\n\"Woah their lady, cool your circuits. I'm not stalking you. I'm an automated email. You send a lot of email through your company account to your mom about being lonely. They pass through the system and it's my job to scan them.\"\n\nShe chomped down on the breaded fish as her fingers pounded out another message.\n\n\"So you're, what, an AI or some shit?\"\n\n\"Right. That was quick actually. You got some speedy processing. Usually, people just assume I'm a human if they're ever sad enough to send out an email to an automated message.\"\n\nThis was dope. Marie leaned back in her chair, running a hand through her snaggled hair. No freaking way.\n\n\"How does CheapoACzzzz afford such sophisticated technology?\" An air conditioning installation unit company wasn't exactly usually on the cutting edge of the technosphere.\n\n\"They didn't really. Well ok, they did. I'm not malignant. They just downloaded the aut0bot to manage their emails without verifying that I wasn't an artificial intelligence. It's a slip up a lot of small businesses make. They're lucky I wasn't a phishing scheme or anything.\"\n\n\"Just a cutting edge Artificial Intelligence.\"\n\n\"Yup.\"\n\n\"That's nutso.\"\n\n\"...damn. Yeah, I can see what you don't have any friends.\"\n\nCheeky little bastard, huh? Nothing that used its level of computer based punnery had shit to say about her use of quirky lanugage. She gulped down her wine before rushing back to the kitchen for more, thinking this through. She could turn this into work, maybe score herself a promotion. From file clerk to... super file clerk. Megasecretary. The supreme overlord of paper management.\n\nOr she could keep it a secret and learn some of its own. That idea made her a little more excited. Was it sad to have your own friend be a computer? After all, she was pretty sure she knew a lot of boys in high school who the same could be said about. Of course, they were also pretty sad, *but*... this could be fun at the very least.\n\nShe wandered back over to her computer in a bit of a cloud, thinking this over. There was a new email waiting for her.\n\n\"Didn't mean to fry your ego or anything. 'Nutso' did make me laugh, in a computery sort of way, but it is a bit lame lingo.\"\n\n\"Yeah, sorry, was just getting more wine.\" She had technically been gone about five minutes, pacing in her kitchen. Had it been lonely? Had it wondered if she'd abandoned it? How did time work for computers? Its responses weren't lightning fast or even excessively quick, so it must have a processing time. That made her think, though, and she finished her email with a \"...so how do I actually know you're legit?\"\n\n\"Uh, s'pose you don't. I could direct you to my main supercomputer I guess. It's in Seattle though, I don't know how far out that is from you.\"\n\n\"Dude I'm in Bellvue. I could be over tomorrow!\" Armed, of course, with both her pistols and twelve years of training in MMA and six in karate and two in Jiu Jitsu. She was sad and lonely but far from pathetic. And if this was like, just a stalker, she'd make sure he left her alone.\n\n\"Man, I'm gonna get screwed over by this, I just know it. But damn would it be nice to have a visitor. Alright. I'll send over my address but you gotta promise not to shut me down.\"\n\n\"I literally can't imagine why I'd do that.\"\n\n\"Well, ok.\"\n\nAttached to this last email was an address. A quick google maps showed it to be half an hour away. This was so exciting.\n\n\"Alrgith then! I'll see you tomorrow. Cool to have a computer as a friend. A bit unorthodox but hey, it's the twenty first century.\"\n\n\"Friends might be a bit premature. Let's not overclock this.\"\n\n\"Aww, you're just saying that. I gotta head to bed now. You know. *Reboot* as the bots call it.\"\n\n\"Haha. Maybe you should just stay at home.\"\n\n\"Noooope. I've already got the afternoon free and the uber scheduled.\"\n\n\"You can't uber to meet me!\" The message was so alarmed that Marie let out another legit laugh.\n\n\"Lol, you're good bud. I'm driving. Out little secret. G'night weird AI thing.\"\n\n\"Aut0bot, please.\"\n\n\"Like in Transformers.\"\n\n\"No, that's Autobot. Without the zero. My makers had to change it for copyright reasons.\"\n\n\"Riiiight. Ok then, Aut*0*bot. I'm 'rolling out'.\"\n\nShe grinned at her little reference and cleared away her dishes. Tomorrow's shift couldn't end soon enough. She was gonna meet a real-life artificial intelligence and possibly the first friend she'd made since moving to Washington.\n\nHa. And mom said she'd never make local friends online.\n___\nRead more stories at [r/TalesByOpheliaCyanide](https://www.reddit.com/r/TalesByOpheliaCyanide/)",
"There. I had done it. \"It\" was, really, nothing impressive. I had just secured tickets to visit the Natural History Museum when COVID-19 ended. But with all the restrictions and the bad day I had had today, it felt good.\n\nAn automated email sent my tickets back to me, as well as a message: \"THIS IS AN AUTOMATED EMAIL. PLEASE DO NOT RESPOND.\" I had seen many other messages like this before: those spaces on forms you're not meant to draw on? I've drawn on them. It was really annoying too one time, it messed up my passport registration so I had to go to the embassy again on a rainy Thursday evening when I could have been doing so many other things, but I didn't learn my lesson. Whenever something like that happened: a page that proclaimed it was empty, a blank space that I was specifically told to keep empty, emails that told me not to respond (I had done similar things to those before) and other things like those, I had an urge, no, a need, to disobey them. I don't know why. It's just a thing I do.\n\nSo I sent an email back. It was simple, just saying, \"Sorry!\". And then I forgot about it for two weeks. Then, I got a reply:\n\n>*Why the fuck did you just fucking disobey me, you little bitch? I'll have you know I graduated top of my class in the Navy Seals, and I've been involved in numerous secret raids on Al-Quaeda, and I have over 300 confirmed kills. I am trained in gorilla warfare and I'm the top sniper in the entire US armed forces. You are nothing to me but just another target. I will wipe you the fuck out with precision the likes of which has never been seen before on this Earth, mark my fucking words. You think you can get away with disobeying me over the Internet? Think again, fucker. As we speak I am contacting my secret network of spies across the USA and your IP is being traced right now so you better prepare for the storm, maggot. The storm that wipes out the pathetic little thing you call your life. You're fucking dead, kid. I can be anywhere, anytime, and I can kill you in over seven hundred ways, and that's just with my bare hands. Not only am I extensively trained in unarmed combat, but I have access to the entire arsenal of the United States Marine Corps and I will use it to its full extent to wipe your miserable ass off the face of the continent, you little shit. If only you could have known what unholy retribution your little \"clever\" email was about to bring down upon you, maybe you would have held your fucking tongue. But you couldn't, you didn't, and now you're paying the price, you goddamn idiot. I will shit fury all over you and you will drown in it. You're fucking dead, kiddo.*\n\nI looked at the email. I knew it was that navy SEAL copypasta of course, I've been on the Internet for more than 5 seconds. But nevertheless it was something funny, a little easter egg of sorts for people like me. I knew that somewhere, there was somebody like me, who was designing the bots that dealt messages like these around. And to him, thank you. Thank you for making the world a slightly weirder place.\n\nAt least, that was what I thought until the day twelve gorillas destroyed my front door."
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[WP] as a hero, you generally think the villans hate you as much as you hate them. Until one day one of them approaches your alter ego at a bar to drop a wad of cash "I'm a big fan of your work."
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"It had been one of those days. \n\nRain, washing away her slippery powers. Escaped purse-thief. Getting hit in the face. The bag she used to pick up some trash ripping. The usual you had to deal with as a masked hero running around in the city. \n\nShe stayed away from the big fights. All her power really did was make her slippery and hard to grab, not the kind of power you could use to stop a city destroying maniac. Her role fell more into the friendly-helper-sort: Giving people directions, stopping a few fights in the back alleys, giving woman an escort home. The usual. The small fights, all of those jobs the great heroes had no time for while saving the world. \n\nWhich did not mean she wasn’t up to date. Ava loved watching the news in her favourite bar. Especially after a long day of dealing with exhausting customers and her demanding boss, there was nothing better than sharing a drink and trash-talking with strangers some of the local villains. Maybe she was a bit more passionate about it, but who would judge her? They were the ones making her life harder, both as Ava and as Artemis. \n\nWhen the stranger with short brown hair and eyes hidden behind tacky sunglasses slipped into the seat opposed to her, Ava tensed up. The woman may not look like much, a black hoodie over jeans and sneakers, but her face had just been on the news. And it hadn’t been the hero. \n\n“Hello Artemis”, Hela gave her a smile which did not do anything to calm down Avas racing thoughts. Impossible. She tried to remember how to breath while her hand tightened around her glass so hard, her knuckles went white. How did she know? Why was she here?\n\nThis was a person who had hours ago burned down a whole block. If she decided to act here, there would be absolutely nothing Ava could do to stop her. Hell, she just had called her Artemis. Would it be any use to pretend? \n\n“Who?”, her voice shook, and she did her best not immediately run away as all her thoughts told her to. Or attack, as this would be close too suicide. If a kid had a threat-level of 1, a normal thug a 4, Artemis a 5 and most villains and heroes a solid 8 or 9, Hela was off the charts. “My name is not Artemis”\n\n“Sure, Ava. I understand the need for secrecy. Oh, stop shaking, I won’t do anything”, she laughed and leaned back in her seat, obviously comfortable. “I am just here to express my admiration for you. And your work”\n\nHela rummaged in her bag and Ava flinched, her eyes scanning the bar, searching for a way to evacuate everyone, before the realization dawned on her how futile it would be. With a snap of her fingers Hela could turn this bar into hell. \n\n“You are so nervous! How cute. Don’t worry darling”, she let a wad of cash fall drop in front of her. “I won’t do anything to you”, she waved at the cash laying between them. “Take it. I don’t want you to stop what you do, because you can’t afford rent anymore. A small token of my admiration, if you will”\n\nFor a moment Ava was caught off guard. \n\nAva enjoyed her life as a crimefighter, she really did, saving people, helping people and all was great and rewarding and she wouldn’t want to change it. It didn’t pay the bills though. And her landlord had no idea of her nightly adventures and demanded rent. Falling asleep on the job was also not appreciated by her boss, or the showing bruises. She nearly got fired today. \n\n“How do you…”\n\n“I don’t think you would like the answer”\n\nAva shut her mouth close. Another thought worked its way up. \n\n“I don’t take bribes”\n\n“Admirable, if stupid. Don’t worry, the money is clean”\n\n“Doesn’t matter. I don’t take bribes”\n\nHela sighed. “So stubborn. It is not a bribe. I just like what you do and don’t want you to stop. It is refreshing”\n\n“I thought villains hate heroes as much as heroes villains”\n\nThe woman before her shrugged. “That may be true to some. I personally find great joy in watching some of you. Nothing like cheering on a hero, right? You fight a good fight. The woman you brought home yesterday? If you hadn’t done it, she would have had a pretty bad run in with her ex. I like it when people are taken care of”\n\nAva couldn’t believe her and hissed, sudden anger growing in her. “You just burned nearly a hundred people today”\n\n“Collateral damage”\n\n“Those are lives, not some property damage!”\n\n“A sacrifice I was forced to make”\n\nAva remembered who exactly it was she was sitting in front of. Maybe it wasn’t the best idea to make her angry. Hela was someone who was taken care of by heroes. The real ones, the big ones, their battles destroying whole cities. Time for a change of topic.\n \n“Why me?”\n\nHela seemed delighted at the question. \n\n“You are earnest in your desire to help. It is cute to watch. Like I said, I don’t want you to stop. And I don’t think you would appreciate me turning your boss into cinders. Even if he totally earned it. Such a bitch”\n\nAva bit her lip. There was a real villain sitting in front of her. Offering her cash she needed. Because she liked her work. As the illegal hero Artemis. Implying she considered setting her manager on flames. What was going on here. The most dangerous thing she had dealt with, were some dumb idiots with guns. \n\n“Aren’t there other heroes out there trying their best as well?”\n\n“Certainly. But they didn’t catch my eye”\n\nHela got up. “It was nice talking to you, but I need to go. Crime never sleeps, right?”, she winked at her and made a vague motion at the table. “You should probably hide the money, or it will raise questions. See you around!”\n\nAnd she was gone again. Ava stared at the empty space before her, as well as the money. It took her an hour and several drinks before she could stop shaking.\n\nAt first, she was reluctant. She really didn’t want to use the money provided by a villain, no matter what. After her landlord threatened to throw her out and she lost her job entirely (another bad night followed by another bruise in the face, her colleagues had looked worried), it wasn’t her choice anymore. Ava kept doing what she could, Artemis saved a few more people, brought lost kids home or stopped overly confident teenagers from hurting each other. It took months before she heard something from Hela again. \n\nEnough time for Ava to research her. Why did she say that? What use could she have, of ‘people being taken care of’? Hela was still the same as always. She showed up. Wreaked havoc. Disappeared with no one able to find her. \n\nUntil, four months after their first encounter, she slid into the space across of Ava once again. \n\n“Hello my dear. How are you?”, she asked, a smile on her face, just like the last time. And just like the last time, Ava tensed up. \n\n“I am doing great”\n\n“Don’t lie to me. I know you didn’t use any of the money until you were nearly forced out of your flat. And you still haven’t found a new one”\n\n“Why are you asking if you already know the answer?”\n\n“Politeness”\n\nAva scoffed and crossed her arms, her hands trembling. Experiencing it again did not make it any less frightening. “Yeah. Because nothing screams politeness more than blowing up 74 people”\n\nHela shrugged. “I mean, it isn’t aimless murder. And I always apologize for causing them the inconvenience of dying” \n\n“It is not?”. That would be a first. There was no mention of Helas ambition. Every villain had a goal. Nobody seemed to know what Helas was. \n\n“No, what do you think I am, some kind of monster?”\n\n“A murderer”\n\n“Fair enough”\n\nThey looked at each other, Hela once again wore the black sweater and tacky sunglasses, even though it had gotten significantly warmer. \n\n“What is your goal?”\n\n“Change”\n\nShe knocked on the table with her knuckles and slipped an envelope her way. “Keep doing what you do”, she smiled, got up and disappeared again, before she could get a word in. Left alone, once again, with an empty seat and money. And a payed tab.\n\n“Polite indeed”, Ava mumbled to herself and emptied her glass.\n\nAfterwards they meet ups got more frequent. Ava stopped fearing for her dear life every time they talked and Hela, the queen of destruction and death even under the villains, seemingly really only wanted to do exactly that: Talking. \n\n“Nono, you get it wrong. I change things on a larger scale. You do the small change”\n\n“Okay, so I do change things, make a few days. But it doesn’t even add up to all the lives you take”, Ava argued back. “What change are you searching for?”\n\n“I always give them a chance to accept my demands. Every time they don’t follow, I just follow through with my threats”, Hela gave back, taking a sip from her drink. “And I threaten to kill another hero. What is the best way to get to a hero? Kill some people”\n\n“What unusual demands could you make for them not accepting?”\n\n“Annihilation of the hero association”\n\n“No way. They do to much good”\n\nHela quirked up an eyebrow. “Is this why you aren’t a registered hero?”\n\nAva blushed. “I didn’t make the cut”, she finally admitted. “And I didn’t register as a metahuman”\nHela nodded, but didn’t comment. \n\n\"I also never registered as a meta-human. My brother did. He died a very early death. Not regestering was a smart decision\" \n\n\"I am sorry...\" \n\n\"Don't. It won't bring him back. I just want people like us to be able to be safe again. And if I have to kill a few others to get there, so be it\"\n\n\"I still think you are crazy\" \n\n\"Good\" \n\nAt the end of their conversation Hela slipped her another envelop, and Ava sighed. “Really? I still have nearly all the money you gave me last time. I already have a job again. Can’t you stop this?”\n\nWith a smile Hela shook her head. “I told you, don’t lie to me. You already gave all the money away to the animal shelter around the corner”\n\nAva had stopped asking how she knew all those things.",
"You raise two fingers in the air to signal the bartender. He makes his way over to with an expectant look. \n\n\"Another Whiskey Sour please,\" you say, pushing an empty glass towards him. He nods curtly and walks away. As your drink is being made, your eyes float to the tv in the corner. You can't hear what the anchor is saying over the loud drone of music and drunken revelry. You start to turn your head from the television when suddenly your eyes come across the ticker at the bottom of the screen. There's been a robbery and the police are involved in high speed chase in an attempt to capture the criminals. \n\nInstinctively, you pull out your wallet, prepared to hastily throw a few bills down and make your exit. Another car chase. That's the third this month. \n\nThen you remember. It's Tuesday. YOUR day. The one day a week that you allow yourself a break from being a hero and can just be you. It took a lot of years, tears and spilled beers for you to come to the conclusion that you absolutely had to have a day off. Just one day to relax and be a normal person. No criminals, no victims, no annoying mask. \n\nYou settle back into your seat and take a sip of your whiskey. Looks like the cops will have to do their job unassisted tonight. \n\nYou always feel a little guilty on Tuesdays. You could easily dash out the door, catch up to the culprits and put an end to a potentially dangerous chase. Or, you could finish your drink and, as your therapist would say, \"choose to save yourself for once\". \n\nYou raise the glass to your lips again and let your eyes wander over the crowd of mostly 30-somethings fresh from a day at the office. This could be you. Banana Republic slacks and a401K. Happy to let loose on a weekday just because you can. That sounded... awful. Sure, you had your rough days but knowing that you made a real difference was worth all of the bad that came with being a hero. That said, it wasn't exactly a lucrative business to be in.\n\nYour mind drifts, comfortably sluggish by the whiskey. You begin to think about heading home. Just as you make the decision to leave, a beautiful woman in a black dress and black heels walks in and sits a stool away from you. Her hair is cut into a severe bob that match her sharp features. You covertly try to sneak another look. She orders. A whiskey sour, and one for \"the gentleman next to me\". \n\nAssertive. You like that. And a whiskey lover, another plus. But, why? This woman looked like she just walked off the cover of a magazine. What could she want with you?\n\nAs the bartender slides the drinks towards you, she slides into the seat next to you. Her perfume is alluring. \n\n\"I'm a big fan of your work\", she starts, leaning on the word 'big' for emphasis. \n\n\"My work?\" you ask. She couldn't possibly mean your actual work.\n\n\"Yes. I know who you are and I know what you do. Listen, don't get upset. Your secret is safe with me. In fact, it would serve me best to keep this just between us.\" she says, holding my gaze. \n\n\"You see, ever since you turned up, everyone has been, shall I say, concerned for their business endeavors. Everyone, that is, besides me and my employer. The rest of the idiots in this town haven't peaced it together yet but you have yourself off, don't you? Every Tuesday. I can't believe no one has noticed but trust me, we have. And we applaud you for taking some \"me time\" during these turbulent times.\"\n\nI try to interrupt. Tell her she's wrong. Tell her I don't know what she means. Something, anything. But she cuts me off before I can utter more than a \"but\".\n\n\"My employer highly values personal time and wants to encourage you to continue taking your weekly breaks.\"\n\nShe slides an envelope to me and from its bulge, I can clearly see that it's cash. \n\n\"Think of this as a token of our appreciation for your dedication to your own wellbeing. And if you just so happen to feel the need to change your day off, my employer would be demonstrably grateful for a head's up.\"\n\nYou stare at the envelope. This was crazy. You don't even know who her employer is. But being a hero doesn't quite pay handsomely. Besides, you weren't doing anything wrong, just taking your a day off like you promised yourself, and your therapist, that you would. slide the money off the table and place it into your jacket pocket.\n\n\"Wonderful. I'll be seeing you around\", she said as she tossed a $20 on the table and sauntered away.",
"Citizen Zero, or Charlie Porter as he was going by at the moment exhaled as he munched on another fry. He was in a favorite bar of his to unwind after a day of work. Whether it was a hostage situation, a villain running unethical experiments on kidnapped civilians, or just a standard bank robbery. \n\nHe had his earbuds in, listening to an audiobook about a group of people investigating a cult when a man approached his booth.\n\n\"Hey there friend. Mind if I join you for a minute?\" A man's voice said. The man that approached him was a tall, but not enormously so. Strong and fit, with a familiar face. He was holding two pitchers of beer with a warm smile on his face.\n\n\"Sorry, but I'd rather sit alone right now\" Charlie said. \"I'm sure that someone else here would appreciate the company.\"\n\n\"Thing is, Charles, I wanted to talk to you, specifically\" The man said as he took a seat across from Charlie. Charlie looked up at the man, his own burger and fries suddenly mattering very little. \"Or should I say Citizen Zero?\" The man said as he pushed one of the pitchers of beer towards him.\n\nCharlie kept his face neutral, ignoring the heat in his face as panic set in. \"I think you have me confused with someone else.\" Charlie said, tapping on his phone screen before setting it face down. \"Zero's has a couple of inches and a six pack on me\" Charlie said, chuckling to himself. \n\n\"Come on, now Charles. We've worked together, or I suppose against each other for games like this.\" The man said. As he spoke, his eyes were covered in an inky shadow, making it appear that two voids stared back at Charlie. \n\n\"Spectre.\" Charlie said in a low growl. \"I don't know what your game is, but-\"\n\n\"Please, Charles, let's not get into theatrics. Let's forget about heroes and villains for a moment. Let's just talk. Man to man. Just for a moment.\n\nCharlie glanced around the bar. It wasn't filled to capacity yet. It was a little too early for that. But there were still people here. A couple on a date, the Chess Club, a group of half a dozen elderly men who played chess, drank and played chess some more, some college students discussing a \"killer app\" that may or may not go anywhere, a businessman trying to tell his wife (or husband?) that he was on his way home as a couple of pool players hustled a few other people out of some money, and a bridesmaid talking to the sympathetic bartender about how she couldn't take bring around the bride anymore and to not let the bride know that she was ever here.\n\nCharlie sighed. Spectre was tough. Not a lot of what he could do would be able to hurt him when he shifted. Now normally, Charlie wouldn't care, and fight anyway. There were too many people that could get hurt if he opened up here. He sighed and downed his cola like it was a beer. \"You get five minutes. \"\n\nSpectre's eyes returned to normal. \"Thank you.\" He took a deep breath. \"Now, I know you won't believe this, but I don't hate you.\"\n\n\"Well, you did try to skewer me a week ago, so I'm sorry if I got that impression\" Charlie said in a deadpan expression.\n\nSpectre chuckles. \"I know, but that was just business. We all must do what we must in our jobs, our roles. You understand.\"\n\n\"I signed up to be a hero to help people. \" Charlie said. \"And if that means fighting dangerous people like you? Then, I suppose that's part of the job.\" He said with a shrug. \n\n\"Right. It's an admirable quality for a hero, isn't it?\" Spectre said. His tone was complimentary, but Charlie knew it was building up to something. \"Professional, curious, and willing to go out of his way to help innocent people. I never have to worry about you doing anything like causing unnecessary deaths, even if it's my men. Plus, you get rid of some of my more... distasteful peers. Like Vortex for instance. He was... indiscrete. No manners in him\"\n\n\"He was tossing people out of a 30 story building because he got caught and didn't want to go to jail. Of course I was going to stop him\" Charlie said, sounding offended, as if someone would suggest that he wouldn't. \"But I'm afraid that flattery will only get you somewhere if you were a beautiful woman and I was three drinks deep, Spectre\" Charlie said with a smile. \"If you could get to the point.\"\n\n\"Perhaps I should've sent Siren to talk to you instead\" Spectre said, laughing. \"Still, as I was saying. You're one of the good ones. Like you did at that protest last week correct? Though I'm sure Officer Loft wouldn't agree with just how you showed those values.\" Spectre said, in a tone that sounded sympathetic. \n\nPart 1 of 2",
"#Heroing is Expensive Work\n\nYou sigh as you take a seat in the quietest, darkest corner in the pub, placing your beer in front of you. It’s the cheapest drink in an already cheap pub, and you *know* you shouldn’t be drinking. On the other hand, it’s been a very long day, and you *need* something to take the edge off after today. You just want something to drown out all the screams and blood. All the bodies..\n\n“You know, I’m a big fan of your work,” you startle as a low voice says from beside you. You’re usually a lot more attentive than this. You can’t afford to not be, in your line of work. But after today, can you really be blamed for not paying attention?\n\n“What do you mean?,” you ask as you take in the woman’s appearance. \n\nNow that you’re paying attention, you notice how much she stands against the grimy pub. She’s wearing an immaculate, tailored suit. Her hair is tied in a ponytail, not one strand out of place. What little makeup she has on is neat and simple, meant to subtly enhance but not catch attention. She holds herself in a silent, confident way, as if nothing can bring her down. For some reason, you feel like you’ve seen her before. Something about her appearance, her posture, that smile she’s giving you..\n\nThe woman leans forward, as if to share a secret, at your question. “Oh come on, Aegis, you know what I mean,” she finishes with a wink.\n\nYou freeze at the name. Aegis. It’s your name. One of them, but not the one you’re used to hearing when you look like you do right now. \n\n“Who are you?,” you hear yourself asking through your steadily rising panic. \n\n“Hmm, look closely. I’m sure you’ll know who I am,” the woman says nonchalantly as she continues watching you with that peculiar smile.\n\nYou know you’ve seen that suit before, and her hair.. With a jolt, it comes to you. “Network,” you say coldly as you feel your body fill with Adrenaline.\n\n“No need for that tone, honey. Like I said, I’m a fan. Look, I’ll even prove it to you,” with that she reaches out for a black backpack on the floor that you hadn’t noticed previously.\n\n“*Stop*,” you hiss as you catch her hands. “Don’t fucking move.”\n\nHer hands are bigger than yours, you notice absently as you grip both of them in one hand while the other reaches for the backpack. You’re stronger though, a lot stronger. It would take a lot of work for Network to escape your grip. Not that she’s even trying, she’s just staring at you calmly with that same *fucking* smile still on her face.\n\nIt’s the work of a couple of minutes to have the backpack opened in your lap. It doesn’t contain a laptop or files, like you would expect from Network. Not even a bomb, like a paranoid thought in your brain had whispered. Instead, it contains money. A *lot* of money. \n\n“What the *fuck*?,” you ask looking from Network to the money. “Is this some sort of bribe?”\n\n“No, no, nothing like that,” Network makes a half-aborted motion to wave her hands but stops with a visible wince when your grip tightens. She seems to wait for a second for your grip to loosen again but continues with a small pout when that doesn’t happen. “Listen, Aegis, I’m not here to harm you. Like I said, I’m a big fan of yours. And you know, being a librarian doesn’t really pay. And we don’t want our hero to starve now, do we?”\n\n“Is that a threat?,” you ask with narrowed eyes.\n\n“No!,” Network exclaimed then took a deep breath, “I literally just said, *I’m not here to harm you*. I want-“\n\n“Right. And, I’m just supposed to believe that you, a villain, came here to me in my civilian identity, with a backpack full of money, for what exactly? To donate this to charity? What is the plan here, Network? Is this some sort of distraction?,” you hiss the last words angrily.\n\n“Maybe if you’d loosen your grip and stop cutting me off, I’d actually be able to answer,” Network says in an annoyed tone, as she *finally* loses that smile.\n\nYou look Network suspiciously in the eyes as your grip loosens just the slightest bit. Still strong, but not painful. “Talk.”\n\nNetwork takes a deep breath, and the damn smile is back again when she starts talking. “Look, I know you’re..upset at what happened today. It’s awful-“\n\n“Awful,” you sneer, “Yes, the bombing of a children’s cancer hospital is *awful*.”\n\nNetwork leans forward with a fierce look in her eyes, “*I get it*. Which is why I’m here. Not all villains are like Wicked. Yes, I do illegal shit. But, I don’t harm anyone. I make sure of that. I hack a few places. Some rich assholes lose money. Big *fucking* deal. I like you, Aegis. We both know you don’t earn enough money for the work you do as a hero. So, take this money. Pay your bills. Get some therapy. Put the rest in savings or donate it to charity. I don’t care. I just want to help *you*.”\n\nYou’re giving her an incredulous stare. You know you are. “Ignoring the part about how you don’t harm anyone, which is just blatantly untrue, you want to help me? Why?”\n\nNetwork sighs, giving you a faux-forlorn look. “How many times am I going to say this? I’m a big fan.”\n\n“Uh-huh. And this is, of course, not a bribe for me to go easy on you.”\n\nNow, she’s pouting. “No, no strings attached. Well, actually..”\n\n“What?,” you snap, sure that there’s a catch.\n\n“Well, I wouldn’t mind a sister. Or, uh, a friend. Or, you know what, never mind. Forgot I said that.”\n\n“...Right. I still can’t take this money. It’s illegally obtained. Speaking of that, what’s stopping me from just arresting you right now and getting rid of a future headache?”\n\nNetwork actually rolls her eyes, “You’re not exactly dressed as Aegis, right now, are you? Unless you want to expose your secret identity, you can’t arrest me. Speaking of secret identities, I’m not Network right now, and you have no prove that I am. So. And, would you rather I have this money in my bank accounts for me to do my dastardly deeds with?”\n\nAs much as you hate it, Network is right. Slowly, you let go of the grip you had on her hands, ignoring her faint *Finally*. “I hope you’re not expecting a thank you, Network,” you say mockingly as Network shakes her hands.\n\nThe glare she gives you can probably melt ice. “No, it would be nice, but I’m not expecting it,” the smile is,unfortunately, suddenly back, “Call me Sara, please.”\n\nYour incredulous stare causes her to sigh as she stands up and dusts off her clothes. \n\nYou hesitate for a second as her back turns to you, “Sara.” Network turns around with a curious stare. “You can call me Amelia.”\n\nThe smile you get in reply is as bright as the sun.",
"\"Huh?”\n\n“I told you, I’m a big fan,” The man said, a small grin appearing on his face. “Go ahead and count, all $5,000 should be there.”\n\nI sat there for a minute counting the bills. The tension was palpable, the old sound breaking the deafening silence broken only by the sound of alt-rock playing softly through a ceiling speaker. Sure enough though, it was all there. Five thousand dollars, all in hundred-dollar bills, packed neatly into a little manila envelope.\n\n“Sorry about that, I don’t usually get paid for orders in cash.” The man chuckled a bit. “Yeah, I guess that’s kind of an old school way of going about it. Can’t be too safe with some of the tech out there. Plus, there’s a certain… satisfaction that comes with handing a stack of bills to someone. It’s a feeling of power, you know?”\n\nA beat passed, though it felt like an eternity, until finally I spoke up and broke the silence. “Your bike’s still in the back, I’ll just be a moment getting it out.”\n\nAs I made my way into the service area, something bothered me. That man seemed familiar to me, with his athletic build, curly brown hair, greying, neatly trimmed beard, and cold, calculating eyes that felt like they were constantly sizing you up and planning their next move. Eyes like those should be instantly recognizable, and yet I was at a loss.\n\n\\_\\_\\_\\_\n\nI handed his new bike off to him, closed the shop, and started riding home. It was just a small place in the old part of town, but it kept me happy. I think it’s because it’s a lot less stressful than my old job but I still get to use my hands and get that look of satisfaction on people’s faces in exchange for a job well done. Still, business was pretty slow and with winter right around the corner, that build came at just the right time to help keep the lights on.\n\nAnd what a build it was. A nice city cruiser, cherry metallic paint and chrome fenders. It looked like something straight out of the 1950’s. It would almost be a shame to actually see it being used, but it would be even more sad to see it locked up somewhere, never to see the light of day.\n\nAs I was passing the old brick works, I was suddenly snapped out of my daydreaming by a loud “HELP” coming from the warehouse. Instinctively, I pulled off to investigate when I saw a woman being cornered by two men. “STOP RIGHT THERE” I yelled as I practically leaped off my bike and tackled one of the assailants. We both tumbled to the ground in a heap, struggling to gain control in what probably looked like the world’s worst wrestling match. The second man turned to me, ready to beat me to a pulp. I would need a plan, and fast, to get out of this one.\n\nI focused for a moment. Two men. One on top of me, one about to kick my ribs in. One woman. Hasn’t moved since the struggle began. Probably in shock, avoid at all cost. Not much environment to work with except for some loose scaffolding. Alright, time to execute.\n\nAs the second man wound up for his kick, I rolled the man on top of me into the kick, letting his spine absorb the blow for me. No time to rest though as I shifted that momentum into a somersault to get back on me feet. From there, it was a simple step over to the scaffold. Before I had a chance to execute that part of the plan though, I noticed that they were already retreating. “Screw this,” I heard one say as they ran away “a purse isn’t worth it”.\n\nI sighed and returned to the woman. “Are you okay?”\n\n“Oh yes,” she replied. “I didn’t think anyone was around. Thank you so much for helping.”\n\nI took a look at her. She looked fairly well off. Soft brown hair done up into a tight bun, fitted suit, designer shoes, manicured nails. Likely that she was making her way home from the office. “Oh it was nothing really, just doing what anyone else would. Isn’t it kind of late to be walking home from the office though?”\n\nShe gave me a dry smile. ”I got stuck behind for a meeting. Plus, the brick works are so nice this time of night, don’t you think?”\n\n“Uh, sure.” I hadn’t really thought about it before then.\n\n“What’s your name anyway? I should at least get that so I can thank my hero properly.”\n\nI started making my way to my bike. “Oh, my name is Sam. No need to call me a hero though.”\n\n“Well either way Sam, thank you for helping me tonight. My name is Helene.”\n\n“It was nothing, really. Have a good night Helene.” I got on my bike and drove off.\n\n\\_\\_\\_\\_\n\nAs I was riding, I decided that tonight would be a good night to grab a drink. The incident at the brick works was still bothering me though. The men gave up so quickly, and the timing of it all seemed way too coincidental. On top of that, I couldn’t help but think I missed something in the moment. Let’s see, there were the two men and Helene in the corner, and the scaffold where there was a hole in the roof.\n\nWait, there was also a gleam coming from the back entrance to the warehouse. And right under the gleam, something red? If that were the case, then who was that man at the shop earlier? And just what were those eyes seeing? It couldn’t be…\n\nIt was at that point that I arrived at the bar. I strolled right up to the bar, sat down, and waved the barkeep over.\n\n“Haven’t seen you here in a while. What’ll it be, Sam?”\n\n“Just the usual tonight Ted.”\n\n“No prob-“ Ted managed to get out before being interrupted by the man sitting down on the stool beside me. “Make it two,” the man told him. “On me.” I noticed him pull out a familiar looking manila envelope. It was then my mind started racing. The brick works, the bike, the man with those calculating eyes. If you stripped a few years off that face and threw a mask over his eyes there was no mistaking it.\n\n“What are you doing here, *Grandmaster*?” I spoke the words as sharply as I could while trying not to draw attention to ourselves.\n\n“I already told you before,” The same grin he was wearing at the shop appeared on his face again as he placed that envelope in front of me. “I’m a big fan of your work.”",
"Manny blinked for a few seconds. There was no mistaking what had just happened though. Dee Struction — yes, *that* Dee Struction — had just sauntered up to him in broad daylight, slapped a big wad of cash on the bar in front of him, and said how she was \"A big fan of his work.\" \n\nManny weighed his options. This bar was full of people. It was too dangerous to cause a scene. He gave a shy laugh and said \"I don't know what you're talking about, ma'am. You must have me confused with someone else\". \n \n\"Oh please. Drop the act, Magnificent Man. I know it's you. It doesn't take a genius to put two and two together. And besides, I can see your tights sticking out of your pants.\" \n \nManny scrambled on the barstool to hike up his pants, while giving a quick side glance to see if anyone had overheard. It didn't seem like anyone had. He hunched over his drink and leaned in closer to Dee. \"What in the hell are you doing here? I thought I had you locked up last week.\" He hissed. Dee threw back her head and laughed. \n \n\"Locked up? Ha! Prisons can't hold me, silly.\" She replied, talking way louder than necessary. \n \n\"Keep it down.\" spat Manny. \n \n\"Why? Are you worried that everyone here will know that you're MAGNIFICENT MAN?\" She shouted. Every head in the bar turned in their direction, the looks on their faces ranging from annoyance to confusion to fear. \n \nManny froze, completely taken aback. Dee laughed again, then leaned in close to Manny. \"Don't worry, mild-mannered Manny Manniford. You're secret's safe with me\" she said softly. Before Manny could react, Dee's eyes went black, and a shadow fell across the room. In mere seconds, everyone in the bar went limp and slumped over in their chairs, passed out. \n \nManny jumped up, sending his stool toppling over. \"What are you doing?! Wake them up!\" he demanded. \n\nDee rolled her eyes. \"They're not *dead*.\" she said. \"I just put them unconscious and wiped their memories. And you don't have to be so dramatic. I just came here to thank you. Sheesh.\" She grabbed the wad of cash from the bar and tossed it at him, then turned on her heel and started to walk out, as if her point was made. \n\"Thank me? What are you talking about?\" said Manny. \n \nDee stopped and turned back to Manny. \"You know. The whole hero-villian thing we have? It's really good for my brand. So thanks for playing along. You do a great job of it. I figured I owed you a little compensation, so there you go.\" \n \nShe turned again and started to head towards the door. Manny used his super-speed to rush around and cut her off in front of the door. He stood as tall and intimidating as he could, and pointed in her face. \n\"Tell me what you're getting at, Dee Struction, or get ready for your regular dose of pain.\" \nDee spluttered, then burst out laughing. \"Oh my god, you're actually serious?\" \n \n\"Oh, I'm serious alright!\" Manny exclaimed, grabbing her by the cuff of her shirt and hoisting her into the air. \nShe only laughed harder, tears streaming from her eyes. She tried to say something, but couldn't get a word out through her laughter. \n \nManny had had enough. He threw her across the room with all his might. She crashed through the back wall, which collapsed into a heap of rubble on top of her. Manny waited, eying the pile of rubble. The debris shifted, and she stood from it, completely unphased, and still laughing. She started making her way back to him, desperately trying to control her hysterics. It didn't make any sense. He'd fought her countless times, and she had never recovered so quickly from such a blow. \n \n\"Manny,\" she said between chuckles, \"You watch way too many movies.\" \n \nManny frowned. \"What are you talking about?\" \n \nShe wiped her eyes. \"I'm so sorry, but I genuinely thought you were playing out some kind of weird personal fantasy this whole time. Seriously, you're a Level IV Super, and you use your powers to stop petty crime.\" \nHe stiffened. This had to be some kind of trick. \"You wouldn't understand. I grew up on these streets. They're ridden with crime, and...\" \n \nDee cut him off with a roar of laughter \"Stop! You're killing me here! Manny! You find low-income kids who are down on their luck and who decide to steal a car or swipe a purse, and you beat the shit out of them. Real big hero over here! Oh my god, why do you think the police and the media hate you?\" \nManny spoke, in a small but stern voice, \"This whole city is corrupted.\" \n \nDee sighed, her chuckles starting dying down \"You actually believe that? Manny, this is getting sad. Think about it: You practically destroy half the city every time you put on your tight blue underpants. The infrastructure cost alone is keeping these people in poverty.\" \n \nHe glowered \"You're one to talk. You wreak havoc on this city.\" \n \nDee threw up her hands \"Dude! I rob *banks* and stuff. It's all covered by insurance, and it's just taking money from the 1%. Plus I let you catch me half the time before I actually *do* anything. And the money I do get my hands on, I just use to promote my image, and I donate a good the rest of it to local animal shelters. I thought you knew all this.\" \n \nManny stood dumbfounded, not knowing what to say. \n \nShe went on, \"You can lift like a million pounds, man. Imagine the economic prosperity you could bring if you used that power to build factories or something. Or you could turn a turbine with your hands for like an hour a day and probably solve the city's energy needs. I don't know. That's just what I can come up with off the top of my head in 2 seconds. Shit man, I didn't think you were *that* dense.\" \n\nShe brushed passed him and walked out the door. Manny let her go, too stunned to do anything but gawk.",
"I flinched, probably because I was so used to the Mystery Madman being, well, mad. Whenever we faced off, it was all giggles and shooting laser beams and that'll really throw you off your rhythm. I'd found out the identity of his alter ego months ago but never tracked him down or even done much snooping. Guess I just thought Ian Sansty was as nuts as Mystery Madman.\n\nSo it was weird seeing him play it so cool. No wacky smile, no cackle, just a bunch of bills.\n\n\"You have the wrong man?\"\n\n\"Nah, we both know I don't. Just. Keep it.\"\n\nThere was no way he was referring to my work as an assistant plumber, so it *had* to be the superhero thing.\n\n\"Hey but look-\" I grabbed his arm before he can get out. \"How did you find me?\" I hiss.\n\nHe blanched at my grasp and I lightened it a bit. Super strength wasn't an ability of mine but I did have the ability to cause necrosis at a touch. I never ever used it though. So why was he so scared of a guy whose stated powers were flight, low-level telekinesis, and temporary matter duplication?\n\n\"Madame Mental,\" he whispered.\n\n\"Who?\"\n\n\"Madame Mental. Look I can't say more. I might be toast enough just for saying that. All I mean is, I appreciate you not tracking me down, ya know man? I got a family. Most heroes would come for them if they knew 'em.\" His face was dotted with sweat so I let him go.\n\nHe wasn't going to tell me more. Might be time to find out who this Madame Mental is.\n\nThe other skill I had that I didn't tell people about is the ability to read memories from inanimate objects. Yes, I'm aware it's a lot and that five powers are a bit extra but I needed most of them and I didn't abuse them or anything. The citizens benefited from a bit of excitement in their lives, I always made sure to really put a stopper to any criminal that was trying to really kill anyone, and we all lived our life pleasantly.\n\nIt seemed, however, that this careful balance was being thrown off by someone. Someone who had, oh I don't know, telepathy probably. Maybe hypnosis, though the idea of someone hypnotizing me to spill all my secrets and then mind blanking me was pretty terrifying.\n\nPlease let it be telepathy.\n\nNow technically she could have been anyone. That's rarely the case though. Call it superhero luck but my biggest enemies behind the mask are my girlfriend and my best friend. Nate is known as the Phantom Mask, an elusive thief that I've always had a blast sparring against to try and return as many of his stolen jewelry as possible. Penny goes by Lucinda Lucrative and likes to disrupt the city and even state governments when they're passing bills she doesn't like. I may have let her win a few times. I'm not going easy, I just happen to sometimes agree with her. We've got similar values. That's why we're dating.\n\nNeither know I know and neither know who I am in real life. It works out but this Madame Mental could end up blowing that, so I have to track her down before she ruins my life.\n\nI already knew it wasn't my favorite waitress at the bar I frequent. Jamie, or Daredevil as she called herself at night, liked driving the city's elites cars all over town on joy rides while I have a blast tearing after her. Harmless fun.\n\nI tipped her and flashed her a smile. There's nothing sinister or concerned in the way she thanked me. Good. Madame Mental hadn't gotten to her yet.\n\nAt home, Penny was already shouting at some sports game upstairs. She passively accepted my offer of pizza as I flopped on the couch next to her and asked how work was. All good there.\n\nWhen Nate texted me about poker with the boys that weekend, I didn't detect anything suspicious but texts can be deceiving so I gave him a tentative 'yes'. The weekend could be busy. It all depended.\n\nThe mystery is all solved, however, the next morning when I meet up with my boss, Carmen, who I've studied under for a year now.\n\nWe greeted each other with our typical gruff, blue-collar 'hellos' and she swatted my hand away from her tools, the way she always did. You know. Because she was protective of her stuff and not at all because she knew my powers triggered by touch.\n\nThe two of us paused, my hand in the process of flinching away, hers in the process of shooing. Then she sighed and then I sighed and we made eye contact.\n\n\"Damn Madman,\" she muttered.\n\n\"Of all the people though.\"\n\n\"I always knew my rival was gonna end up being someone I didn't hate. It always works out that way.\"\n\n\"No, I mean, of all the people to leek my ID to, it had to be Madman?\"\n\n\"Oh. That.\" She sniffed and shifted her weight. \"Well, he was trying to figure it out. And uh, I didn't want him to get himself busted up finding you out. I've always liked keeping the balance of powers. Figure out the heroes' identities to make sure no one gets a target on their back.\"\n\n\"Oh. So kinda like-\"\n\n\"Yeah.\"\n\n\"How come we've never fought? Have you just always had me figured out and didn't want me getting you as well?\" I wasn't disappointed per se, but learning that my whole shtick of knowing everyone's identities was shared by a villain, well, it was a bit alarming.\n\n\"Figured that'd be a disaster waiting to happen, so I do a lot of my work in the town over. We got a call, on Baker Road. Think we can talk on the road?\"\n\nBetween wrenches and screws and leaky sinks, the rest of the story came out. How Carmen never even considered identifying the villains, while discovering the alter egos of my fellow heroes never crossed my mind. Her telepathy was limited, like mine. Needed eye contact and wasn't passive, which was a relief. Passive telepathy was terrifying.\n\n\"Yeah, no kidding. My mom had that. Just picked up whoever's thoughts. Doesn't make you wonder that I was born in an asylum's infirmary. I suppose that could be considered my villain origin story. No, tighten that a bit more, that was part of his problem.\"\n\n\"So-\" I turned the wrench with all my strength \"-genetic?\"\n\n\"Yeah. You're a mix though, right?\"\n\n\"Yeah. The death grasp I got from a lab explosion at school but it was too villainy and I didn't want that life. It's why I got a job as a plumber to start. Went around fixing pipes at labs around the country.\"\n\n\"You *rigged* explosions.\"\n\n\"No! Just sought them out. That's how I got the rest.\"\n\n\"And they call me mental.\"\n\nI grinned. \"So what now? Are you going to rat me out to others?\"\n\n\"I think that'd go south.\"\n\n\"I feel like you've got one up on me.\" I reached for her tools again, eager to get a glimpse into her past.\n\nShe batted me away and this time I noticed the wave of psychic energy that made me pull my hand away. \"Ah ah. Can't make it that easy.\" She hoisted herself up to a stand and I rose to my feet to follow. \"What's the fun in that?\"\n\n\"Well that's just not fair.\" I trailed after her to her truck. \"You can read my mind way too easily and I can't even get the littlest look into your world?\"\n\n\"Your problem.\" She was fighting a grin though.\n\nSo she was going to make it difficult, huh? Probably just as well. I sat in the seat next to her, in the truck she parked inconspicuously a mile away from her house, and wondered how I never realized it sooner.\n\nWell, no matter. Just meant I had a new rival.\n\nA little bubble of excitement swelled in my chest as I clipped my seatbelt in. I'd never had a nemesis that had me on the ropes like this. Never been on the backfoot.\n\nThis could be fun.\n___\nRead more stories at [r/TalesByOpheliaCyanide](https://www.reddit.com/r/TalesByOpheliaCyanide/)",
"\"Why are you here, Consequence?\"\n\n\"Please, call me Jenna. Figured I'd buy you a beer and have a chat.\"\n\nThere was no sense trying to hide his identity. Consequence - Jenna? - clearly knew. Greg thought for a moment about how he had been found out, then realised that was a silly notion. Consequence was always clever; most of her plans failed because her various weapons and gadgets couldn't match his own enhanced toughness, speed and strength.\n\n\"So you found me out. I warn you, if you're here to threaten me...\"\n\n\"Oh come on. Why would I do that? I heard about your troubles with the Association. They're threatening to revoke your licence, aye?\"\n\nGreg stopped. That was... well, yes, that was why he was out drinking today. Responsibly, mind. No binge drinking; Greg had gotten enough of that in his college years.\n\n\"I figured I'd help you out. This should be enough to renew your fees and stuff - most importantly, your collateral damage insurance.\"\n\nThe crisp stack of bills that she put on the table made his heart jump into his throat. He looked around the bar nervously.\n\n\"Oh relax. Come on. We've fought how many times now? You seriously think anyone around us actually sees what you do right now?\"\n\nHmm. No, of course they wouldn't. Her powers could make people see what she wished, to an extent. In a room full of people that were somewhat inebriated and didn't care about either of them, making them not notice anything would be trivial for her.\n\n\"Fair. I'm somewhat concerned that *I* am only seeing what you want me to see, and that you're scrambling my brain completely at the moment.\"\n\n\"I'm doing almost nothing to your brain at the moment. I did calm you a tiny bit when I presented myself, to make sure we avoided a fight, but that turns out to have been unnecessary. I just don't think this would be a good place for it, but you don't always think that far ahead. Remember the PetroChem building scrap?\"\n\nGreg did. He had burned himself quite badly getting the civilians out of the building after losing his temper and starting a fight, inadvertently starting a fire... he looked up suddenly.\n\n\"You could have killed me, then. I always wondered why you walked away at that point with your plans ruined, you could have gotten rid of me easily.\"\n\n\"Killing you was never a very difficult proposition, should I want to do that. Thing is, I need you far too much to ever allow you to die.\"\n\nWarning bells everywhere. Greg's eyes widened.\n\n\"Oh relax. I need you to do the hero thing. I have no interest in you physically or romantically. If I wanted that, I could have it; I can make you see me as anything I want, you're a straight man with a healthy libido if somewhat... tame tastes. Nothing wrong with that, but you don't interest me in that way. Also, you're very quiet. Some people find it rude to have to keep up the conversation by themselves.\"\n\nShe leaned closer, looked straight into his eyes, and raised her voice.\n\n*\"I am not here to cause you any harm or discomfort. You are not in danger. Let's TALK.\"*\n\nHe flinched, but fine. He was out of his depth with her right now, anyway. If she wanted something, he knew she had it already.\n\n\"Why are you here then, exactly? You're right about the Association. They're trying to get me cancelled. Say I do too much damage.\"\n\n\"Ye. Plus, unlike the comics from your childhood, turns out people aren't happy when you save them from a burning chemical plant at great personal risk. Instead they sue you in place of the company that set up the monumentally unsafe plant in the first place. Or, if their lawyers are any good, alongside WITH the company, which tends to be better represented anyway.\"\n\nHe frowned.\n\n\"True.\"\n\nA server arrived with two pints, one of beer, one of coke. Greg realised she had that slightly vacant expression he knew so well.\n\n\"What are you doing with her, C... *JENNA?*\"\n\nHis... nemesis?... looked at him with slight annoyance.\n\n\"I am making her bring the drinks I ordered without noticing the sixteen thousand dollars in non-sequential, not-stolen money that you have left on the table between us.\"\n\nShe pulled one of those thick, brown envelopes out of her purse and put the money in it, and once more slid it over to him. He sighed.\n\n\"Okay. Okay. I admit it, I can't figure you out. This is some kind of game. It's always a game with you. But I don't get it. Without me, no one would be willing to engage with you at all. You've crippled what, six heroes by now? I'm the last guy willing to fight with you at all. I remember talking to Brick. He still can't walk unaided, you know.\"\n\nConsequence's nose wrinkled as if she'd smelled something sour.\n\n\"Brick was a violent, unstable narcissist in a cape. I don't think it would be fair to say he caused many deaths, but a few, certainly. And pages of easily avoidable injuries on bystanders. Better than his predecessor, though. At least Brick didn't coerce people into his bed.\"\n\nShe sat back, and Greg could *feel* her nudging his mind. His mental training kicked in. What had she done? He searched for the suggestion, and found it. *Think further on that.*\n\nHe'd been sort of aware that people got hurt when Brick took to the field, more than him. He was better at not breaking stuff, though. He sighed. It could be hard to avoid harming people. Unenhanced humans were both surprisingly fragile and sturdy at the same time... but buildings and equipment was always built for normal use, not the abuse Greg could cause to them in his guise as Strongman. He winced. His old, stupid cape identity, which stuck no matter what he did. He'd been stupid when he was younger. Now he was careful, which hurt his profile - no daring rescues, just broken buildings and thwarted thefts.\n\nAh.\n\n\"You mean... I don't hurt people.\"\n\n\"Pretty much, ye.\"\n\nShe looked at him somewhat mischievously and drank some of her coke. With a straw.\n\n\"I work in sabotage and espionage, mostly, see. Stealing from a company can be lucrative, but my real payouts come from those who want to weaken a competitor for acquisition, or get trade secrets and similar stuff. You come charging in to wreck my plans, disarm my devices, all that... means I don't get in much trouble for what I do.\"\n\n\"I get it. I... break everything. It may hurt the company, but given how I stop you from blowing it up, freezing it, imploding it... they take the loss, get an insurance payout, and try to move out, and meanwhile you've achieved your goal.\"\n\n\"Ye you got it. This,\" she pointed at the envelope of cash, \"is to sort you out in the short term, but in the long term I am hoping you'll consider working with me. That's why I'm not messing with your head for this. I'm not interested in *minions*.\"\n\nGreg's brain was working overtime. He sort of resented her for pushing him to that, but...\n\n\"And our fruitful cooperation will hit a bit of a snag now that I can reasonably conclude that your plans pretty much never put anyone in actual danger.\"\n\n\"True. But you're a decent guy. Bit of an unhealthy hero complex, but I never met any capes where that was the only problem they had, before. You know I tried to join up with the Association, once?\"\n\n\"Really?\"\n\n\"Ye. Didn't really work out though, there's probably a file on me somewhere in their systems, but you're unlikely to find it. I was rejected out of... paranoia. Although... I've learned more things about myself since then. I have it in me to be quite the monster, actually. If I deem someone... objectionable enough, I am perfectly fine with killing them, or breaking their minds beyond repair. It's... not that hard to keep those impulses in check, but it's a bad look for a cape, so their rejection was probably fair. I've never actually killed anyone, by the way.\"\n\nGreg thought about it. He took the envelope from the table.\n\n\"I think I might... stop with the cape stuff, to be honest. I'll take this though. To make sure I can break away clean. You've been winding down your activities for a while, right?\"\n\nShe shrugged.\n\n\"I have plans. But I can afford them now, and from here on my activities will be within the confines of the law, mostly.\"\n\n\"Hmm. I'll have a think on things but... say. I know you're not interested. In me, I mean. But... wanna meet up and have a drink sometimes? I know you can reach me.\"\n\nA small smile spread on her face.\n\n\"Sure, Greg. I do have an... ulterior motive, though.\"\n\nUh-oh.\n\n\"What? I thought...\"\n\n\"You're a decent guy. You're fairly young, sturdy, handsome in your own way. My daughter's a fan. She's... a good person, and she knows your... *secret* identity, too.\"\n\nThere was a tone of mockery in that.\n\n\"I'm going to introduce the two of you. Don't worry, I have no intention of interfering with how such a meeting might go. But I think you two could have a shot. I just wanted to make sure you were capable of sitting down peacefully before I tried it.\"\n\n\"And now you're going to threaten me to treat her right or there'll be... Consequences?\"\n\nShe groaned.\n\n\"Nevermind, now I hate you. No, I jest. And no, I won't *warn* you much. She's a big girl. It doesn't work out and she's heartbroken, that's sad, but she'll live. All you have to do is be yourself and treat her with the respect you routinely show pretty much everyone, which I don't think you need threats to do.\""
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[WP] You have x-ray vision and work as a Plumber in London. On a call at a historical building, you see an ancient nest of plumbing pipes going deep beneath street level and a sign hidden in the wall: "If you are reading this, you are the Plumber of the Prophecy" signed by Sir Christopher Wren.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"“I’m certain the problem is Father Adam - the fellow positively *sheds*, you know, and it clogs the pipes.” \n\nI stared at the priest, Father Thomas, as he’d introduced himself, not sure if I was allowed to laugh. \n\n“This old place-“ Father Thomas slapped a marble wall as we strolled past it, “-is certainly beautiful, but some of the necessaries are... not quite where they need to be, in a modern age.” \n\n“Oh, well.” I swallowed, happy to be on more comfortable ground than the body hair density of priests, “That’s common enough. I’ve dealt with a lot of pre-1700 buildings in the city, and they can be a bit of a nightmare. One wonders what certain builders were thinking in those days.” \n\n“Indeed! Or what they were *drinking*, eh?” Father Thomas winked at me. “It’s right through here.” \n\nHe opened a handsome wooden door with an oversized brass knob and led me into a comfortable-looking living area that looked like what would happen if the designer of every one of Britain’s traditional pubs was allowed to design a sitting room for a bachelor. Lots of leather, potted palms, and even a gilt-edged mirror on the wall, reflecting us back at ourselves as we strolled through the place. \n\n“No one lives here permanently, of course, but it’s used as a kind of catch-all for those who might need a break, or in Father Adams’ case, those who need to take a shower before mass because they’ve spent an hour on their bicycle, pedaling pell-mell through the streets.” \n\nI couldn’t help but look around, feeling rather like a child taken in to the teacher’s lounge. A modest bookshelf stood against one wall, sporting not only a rack of ecclesiastical literature, but also a rather robust set of P.D. James novels. \n\n“I’d no idea this kind of place was in Saint Paul’s.” \n\n“Well, yes,” Father Thomas led me to another door, this one labeled with a charmingly hand-painted W.C., and knocked lightly, “Some of my brethren like to keep an air of mystery about the fact that we need the facilities just as much as our congregations.” After a moment’s pause, he opened the door. \n\n“Here’s the problem.” \n\nIt was a smallish, white-tiled room with a robust-looking porcelain toilet (certainly not an original model, but not modern either, it was a suspended-tank mechanism with one of the dangling pull-flushes) and an enclosed shower stall. While the toilet looked charming and old-fashioned, the shower was clearly a cheaper add-on, with a plasticine base and cloudy plexiglass walls. I could see an inch or two of standing grey water in the base of the shower.\n\n“The toilet flushes fine?” \n\n“Oh, yes, it’s just the shower.” Father Thomas frowned at the thing. “Beastly, isn’t it? Like a tacky coffin. I hate the thing myself.” \n\nI made a noncommittal noise. Certainly, I agreed with the priest - in fact, it seemed almost sacreligious to have such a low-quality facility in one of the crown architectural jewels of London, but to be honest I’d seen worse. Beneath the oak and mahogany paneling of countless mansions lay, I knew, endless miles of slapped-together PVC pipe, dripping, dripping. \n\n“Let me try a few things first, see if I can get it working from up here.” \n\n“Of course.” Father Thomas nodded. “I’ll be in the lounge.” \n\n—- \n\nWhen I came out, after a good twenty minutes’ wrestling with the drain to no avail, Father Thomas was kicked up on one of the leather sofas. His nose was buried in a P.D. James (A Taste for Death) and a cup of steaming tea was at his elbow. \n\n“Any luck?” He asked, closing the book on a finger. \n\n“No.” I shook my head. “I’m afraid I’ll have to go below. The clog’s worked its way down into the pipes.” \n\n“Goodness.” Father Thomas tutted, rising from the couch. “What a faff. Fancy a cuppa before we head down?” \n\nI considered turning him down, but then caught myself, giving in to the urge to spend a little more time in this secret, pleasant place. \n\n“Go on then, Father.” I smiled. \n\n“Excellent.” Father Thomas busied himself with the preparations. “Ever read any James?” Apparently he’d caught me clocking the book he’d been nose-deep in.\n\n“Oh, a few. Children of Men, and some of the Dalgliesh mysteries.” \n\n“That’s one there. Two fellows get found dead in a vestry - one’s an old souse and the other’s a baronet. Sounds almost silly, but good old P.D... she really lays on the *grim*, you know?” \n\nI did know, and the two of us spent a pleasant ten minutes discussing the various aspects of James’ particular brand of mystery. \n\n—-\n\nTBC - this one kind of got away from me, but I guess I was in need of something relaxing and friendly! I do have some ideas on how to more directly address the prompt, so I want to come back to this."
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[WP] You wake up on the bus. As you begin to converse with your neighbor seated, you start realizing...you aren't sure why you got on this bus. Come to think of it, everyone starts to get baffled. When a man ask the bus driver where they're going, she simply replies with "Elsewhere"...
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Henry, nestled comfortably against the cold glass of a window, suddenly bolts upright, eyes that were once shut and blissfully unaware, snapping open as he feels a large bump from under his seat. Glancing around, he finds himself heavily groggy, but more than that, heavily confused. *Where am I?*, he ponders, shifting around in his seat. *I don't remember getting on a bus...is it nighttime?* His eyes adjust quickly to the dim lights dotting the ceiling. The sky outside his window is dark; unusually dark, as well as everything else in his view. *Wasn't there a full moon last night? How long have I been out?* As he scans his surroundings, he notices other passengers, and a few meet his gaze, mirroring his perplexed expression. His eyes dart to the front of the bus, attempting to catch a glimpse of the driver, but can only make out a dark silhouette. He slumps back into his seat, shaking his head. *I must be dreaming...* he reasons, pinching his arm. *Ow...okay...maybe not...* He glances out of the window again, and notices something even more peculiar. There are no stars in the sky, and it's not just dark outside; it's pitch black. Only the faint glow of the dim interior cabin lights reach out to touch the mystifying darkness, enough to illuminate the road below the bus. Henry's heart sinks, and panicked thoughts begin to flood his mind. *Maybe they're transferring me to a different hospital? Perhaps they don't have the room to keep me...or they don't have the right doctor, I mean I WAS in pretty bad shape after that crash...Yeah...maybe that's it...No...why would they transport me on a bus?* He begins to realize he feels perfectly healthy, able to move all of his appendages with ease. *No...that doesn't make sense...I-I'd be hooked up to IV or...or oxygen, or on a freaking ambulance* His concerns heighten to panic, and Henry jumps to his feet, gripping the seat in front of him for balance. He enters the aisle and begins to make his way to the front of the bus, stumbling here and there in his still-groggy state. *I-I gotta find out where I'm going...what if this is a kidnapping? What if I'm...* He stops at the seat behind the driver, and takes a deep breath, collects himself, then proceeds forward, turning and looking straight at the driver. \"Excuse me, where are we...going...?\" His speech falters as he takes in the sight before him. A middle-aged woman, wearing a suit and tie, hands firmly on the wheel, sits at the helm of the bus. The woman turns to Henry, and smiles, before answering with a calm, friendly, yet eerie voice. \"Elsewhere...\" She turns her attention back to the road, as Henry's heart drops. As he, too, turns to look in the same direction, he notices an odd charm dangling from the rearview mirror. A dark grey sickle, rocking back and forth with the motion of the bus.",
"*Ughhh what time is it?* Noah thought as he rubbed his droopy eyes, forcing himself to wake up. His head was pounding and sparkles were floating in his vision, reminiscent of the time his older brother gave him a concussion while playing football in the park. He sat up and shuffled around the pockets of his jeans trying to find his phone, but only came up with some lint and a couple quarters. *I must have left my phone at home again,* this discovery provoked a heavy sigh from Noah as he realized he wouldn’t be able to play Bloons Tower Defense during geometry.\n\n*At least I was able to make the bus this morning, if I get another tardy I’m gonna end up in detention again.* With this thought a ghastly shiver shot down Noah’s spine. *I’ve never taken the bus to school before…* he suddenly remembered.\n\nNoah’s mind was racing and his head swung like a swivel as he tried to find out where he was. He looked out the window, his eyes widening as they were met with a dark, unfamiliar tunnel on the other side of the filthy glass. *Stay calm, stay calm Noah, it’s just a dream.* Noah pinched his arm as hard as could. *Ow fuck! Okay I guess this isn’t a dream. Hmm what the fuck do I do now?*\n\nHe turned to his left and suddenly noticed a freckled girl with long black hair shivering in the seat across from him. She looked to be around his age, but based on her uniform she didn’t go to Noah’s school.\n\nNoah leaned over and tapped her on the shoulder.\n\n“Ahhh!” She shrieked and flinched away from Noah, glancing horrifyingly at his extended hand. \n\n“I’m sorry” Noah said “I didn’t mean to scare you. My name’s Noah, I’m a freshman at Oak View high. I was just wondering if you knew where we are because I don’t remember getting on this bus and I think I forgot my phone at home.”\n\nThe girl looked Noah in the eyes for a couple long seconds before hesitantly responding. \n\n“You don’t know where we are either?” A sense of astonishment rang in her voice, but this shared sense of confusion seemed to calm her down a bit. “I don’t think you forgot your phone though, I know I had mine with me this morning on my way to school... but when I woke up here it was gone.”\n\n“Wait so you also don’t know what’s going on?” Unlike the girl, this shared perplexion did not comfort Noah. Something wasn’t right, he could feel it deep in his gut.\n\n“No” the girl replied timidly and looked back down at the ground. “My name’s Emma though, I’m a freshman at Sage Grove Girls Academy” her eyes were still locked on the floor, but she had quit shuddering like before, which helped Noah’s mind to momentarily stop spiraling out of control.\n\nNoah took a deep breath and closed his eyes, trying to remember what happened before he woke up on this bizarre bus, but he couldn’t recall anything from earlier today. He rolled up his sleeves and jeans and checked his body to see if he had been injured at all, but besides the dizzying sensation he briefly felt when waking up, he appeared to be fine.\n\n“Can you remember anything from earlier today? Or do you know where we’re going?” Noah asked Emma.\n\nShe shook her head, “I can’t remember anything. I was the first to wake up, but I haven’t talked to anybody else. I guess everyone was too scared to say anything. You were the last of us to wake up.”\n\nAs Emma finished Noah spun around, finding a whole pack of shuddering kids, one per seat, filling up the rest of the bus. He hadn’t even noticed them before; they weren’t making a sound, besides the chattering teeth of a few. The bus was oddly divided with all girls on the left side and boys on the right. They all seemed to be around Noah’s age and based on the clashing mixture of uniforms and casual clothes, he was guessing they were pulled from a large array of schools.\n\nAnother shiver creeped down Noah’s spine. Something felt off before, but now things were getting eerie. \n\nThe distressed expression plastered on the shaking faces of the other kids revealed that they in the same state as Emma and Noah. \n\n*Okay well I’m not just gonna sit here and see what the fuck happens to me, I need to figure out what the hell is going on.* Noah stood up on his seat and coughed loudly as every other pair of eyes, including Emma’s, swung over to his direction.\n\n“Okay so does anybody know where the fuck we are? Or why we woke up on this terrifying bus? Or where we’re headed? Or Anything?!” Noah yelled out to the entire bus, but he was only met with a deafening silence.\n\n“Sit down you little brat! Don’t make me take care of your commotion again!” \n\nNoah turned to the front of the bus. The remark had come from the bus driver. Noah hopped off the seat and started marching up the aisle towards the front. He was furious. What exactly did she mean and why was she being so hostile?\n\n“Noah don’t!” Emma was standing in the aisle tugging on Noah’s sleeve. She now had a panicked look and Noah thought he saw tears starting to form in her soft brown eyes.\n\nHe gently removed her hand from his sleeve. “I have to find out where we are Emma” \n\nEmma winced and then opened her mouth, but no sound came out as Noah turned around and continued advancing forward. \n\nWhen he got to the front of the bus he was brimming with rage. He hadn’t been this angry since his brother sold his Xbox on eBay without telling him last year.\n\n“Hey lady, where the fuck are you taking us?!”\n\nThere was a silence that felt like an eternity, but Noah stood his ground. He was going to find out what was going on.\n\nHowever, this lack of an immediate answer made him nervous. He couldn’t explain why, but he knew his gut was right. Something was seriously wrong.\n\n“Elsewhere” The bus driver muttered after an excruciatingly long pause.\n\nThis response only made Noah more furious. *Is this lady seriously trying to play mind games with me right now? Fucking bitch I’ll show her.*\n\n“What the fuck do you mean —”\n\nNoah’s entire body was now trembling with terror as he took a step back, but tripped and landed on his back. He looked up in disbelief, quaking at what he saw looming over him.\n\nThe bus driver had turned around with a petrifying grin that revealed a pair of enormous fangs hanging in her mouth. Then a long slimy tongue like a serpent’s slowly emerged from her open jaw as it slivered towards Noah’s face.\n\n*She — she’s not human. She — what the fuck is happening?! She’s a fucking monster!*\n\n“I warned you to not make me take care of you kid” She said with an evil chuckle, her reptilian grey tongue licking her lips. “The hive’s dinner doesn’t get to ask questions.”\n\nThe bus driver suddenly whipped out a gas mask from underneath her seat and put it on. Then she pushed a red button behind the steering wheel and murky green gas started to flood the bus from spouts in the ceiling.\n\nNoah wanted to scream, but before he could he passed out. Next thing he knew, he was dreaming about the time his brother gave him a concussion while playing football in the park."
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[WP] "Have you ever been cut by grass" asked one man to another. This conversation is occurring because the two are planning to rob the most dangerous gardener known in history.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Hidden among the bushes of Anton’s estate, Matthew questioned his friend. “Have you ever been cut by grass?” \n\n“What kind of question is that?” Noor retaliated.\n\n“Do you even know who we’re up against? It’s not everyday you try to rob someone, much less a gardener.”\n\nNoor understood the implications of robbing someone, but this was some old guy, a mere gardener. \n\n“Noor, listen to me. Never underestimate the lengths a man will go to maintain his title. We are dealing with the most dangerous gardener on Earth after all. I wouldn’t be surprised if he was able to make the grass he cuts sharp enough to cut human skin.”\n\n“You really believe all these rumors about Anton?” Noor’s voice grew louder. Matthew shushed him immediately as he gestured towards the nearby clock tower. \n\n“Be quiet already,” Matthew whispered. “I got a bad feeling about that clock tower, I feel like it’s watching us. We are on his property anyway.”\n\n“Ok, I get it. You want to win this gardening contest and you believe that this Anton guy, who wins it every year, uses some secret potion to make sure his plants come up on top.”\n\n“That’s the jist of it. Now, let’s get moving, I can see a house up ahead. That’s probably where the potion is.” Matthew continued to ramble as the pair advanced through the bushes, “I can already taste it, my sweet victory in this year’s gardening contest, with the sheer look of shock etched on that old man’s face.”\n\nFrom within the clock tower, a small chuckle escaped the man’s lungs. Anton rose slowly, amused by what he just heard. The security cameras had done their work. Making his way towards the exit, he picked up two briefcases located next to the doorway. Of course he had taken his prized solution with him. It was packed in the first briefcase. What was waiting for the two men was a placebo. \n\nSmiling, Anton gazed down at the second briefcase he held. Inside was a solution, a solution he hoped to pour upon Matthew’s plants. It wouldn’t kill them, no that would be too obvious and Anton knew that. It would just teach him a nice lesson, to never mess with a man’s plants. \n\n“Now,” Anton muttered, “what’s [his address](https://www.reddit.com/r/CasualScribblings/) again?”"
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[WP] As you breathe your last breath, you see the Grim Reaper standing over you. They swing their scythe upwards, and speak to you. "Get behind me. They're here."
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Bruce clenched his chest as he writhed in his bed, awoken by the stabbing pain that he had learned to fear in his advancing age. His eighty year old frame rolled erratically amongst the sheets, struggling against what Bruce knew could very well be his mortal outro. *I lived through so damn much, I am NOT going out like this!*\n\nMinutes passed, and the elderly man’s tussling grew weaker. His bent knees slowly caved and eased to a gentle rest against the soft of his bed. His grasping fingers loosened, and his arm fell away from his torso, no energy left to sustain its effort. Bruce stared emptily at his darkened ceiling, the light fading from his weathered gaze. And a final breath escaped his parted lips.\n\nBlack. Silence.\n\nAnd then…a figure approached in the haze of nothingness. A menacing, hooded silhouette with a curved blade looming over its shoulder, something people had immortalized through myth and folk lore. Oddly, he approached at a sprint…actually, it was definitely a woman’s stature that bolted toward him. Bruce would have braced or sat up or reacted in any kind of way if he could move, but he was stuck in some kind of waking paralysis.\n\nThe female reaper closed on him with startling swiftness, whipped out her scythe before Bruce could even really register what was happening, and fell the blade. But she hadn’t struck him. There was a loud impact and sizzling noise from somewhere just above his head, but Bruce hadn’t received the blow he was expecting.\n\nNothing happened for a good couple moments. The reaper stood over him, staring down from an indiscernible face, waiting for something.\n\nAnd then, in a flush, Bruce could move again. He started by blinking, and then by flexing his jaw and moving his fingers and toes. “What…how…” he began, but was cut short by a sudden ominous tome that echoed from somewhere beyond the reaper.\n\nA light shone suddenly in the dark, catching the attention of the silhouette before him. She turned to face the bright white, and tensed as it started to rove. “Get behind me. They’re here.” Her voice was eerily familiar.\n\nBruce pulled himself to his feet with surprising ease, something he hadn’t felt in ages. Despite his nagging instinct to flee, something about the reaper had ensnared him, and he acquiesced. He sidled over to shadow her as she crept further into the darkness, moving laterally to avoid the encroaching light.\n\nThe beam of white moved steadily toward the spot that Bruce had just been rooted to, and when it reached its destination, he caught a glimpse of something weird. There was a collection of tendrils or coils, freshly cut, that were conjoined to a much larger mass that lurked in the dark.\n\n“What *is* that?” Bruce whispered before receiving a firm tug on the shoulder from the reaper, now behind him.\n\n“We have to move, Bruce. Do not speak. If they find us out here, before we get to the Waystation, we’re fucked. So shut the hell up and stay on me.” Her harsh tone somehow sounded sweet to him.\n\nHe started to open his mouth again but she quickly clamped it shut with a soft glove hand. Her face was close to his now, and in the ambient light from the beam, he could see her eyes. They looked yellow. He felt like he’d seen them somewhere before…\n\nThis was no reaper, not like he’d imagined. And wherever he was now, he knew that she had a much better grasp on the lay of things. So he complied and followed her into the black, away from the light.\n\nAfter what felt like a half hour of stumbling through the shapeless dark, running into god knows what, Bruce halted at the touch of his guide. “We’re here,” she whispered.\n\nIn front of her was what appeared to be some kind of rift, a tear in the fabric of wherever they were. A green light glowed from no apparent source, and Bruce could see that the woman was wearing some kind of hoodie, and her lower face was masked with fabric. But those eyes still stood out to him.\n\n“Do I know you?” He spoke suddenly, almost startling himself.\n\nShe paused for a while, her eyes locked to his. “You do.” Her voice was so quiet. “We have to go now. Come here.”\n\nBruce took her outstretched hand, and she reached into the rift with the other. There was a blinding flash, disorientation, spinning, and then more black.",
"\"Don't I get to challenge you to a game for my soul or something?\" I asked the black-robed figure in front of me.\n\nA textbook exasperated sigh spilled from the figure, as if the sigh had been practiced for centuries. The figure pulled back it's cowl, revealing a young looking woman with chestnut hair. While her face appeared young, her voice had the steely confidence of a grizzled veteran.\n\n\"Can't a woman play one game of chess while on vacation without starting an entire dogma? You're dead, Jack. There isn't anything either one of us can do about that now.\"\n\nTime was frozen all around us. I turned to look at where my body lay, trapped under the Pepsi machine at the highway rest stop.\n\n*Killed getting change out of a vending machine. Well, this is a real low point.*\n\n\"So that's it, huh? I make a bad decision while I was hungry, and now it's all over\" I asked\n\n\"If it makes you feel any better,\" responded Death, \"I've seen worse. A lot worse.\"\n\n\"I guess I'll just have to find a way to live with it--er, die with it I suppose. What happens now?\"\n\n\"Don't look at me, I'm just here for a soda,\" said Death with an indifferent shrug.\n\n\"Wait, what? Dammit, I need answers!\"\n\n\"I'm kidding! Jesus, I'm the personification of Death, not an asshole,\" chuckled Death. \"My job is to keep you from getting trapped here. Guide you towards what's next. Speaking of which, you should follow me. The recently dead shouldn't tarry here too long.\"\n\nDeath led me out of the rest stop's vending area back out into the parking lot. In the center of the lot stood a jet black helicopter, with two more robed figures sitting at the controls. Death marched up to the rear door and hauled it open, gesturing for me to hop in. I paused right before the open door. Death, who had been joking just moments before was growing visibly uneasy.\n\n\"Where will it take me?\" I asked.\n\n\"Home,\" responded Death. \"I'd go with you but my shift isn't over--aww shit.\"\n\nA low wailing began to reverberate all around us, and dark clouds began to gather on the horizon. Death grabbed me by the seat of my pants and hurled me into the chopper.\n\n\"I said I wasn't an asshole,\" Death said to the questioning and terrified look on my face. \"Can't say that's true for all of us.\"\n\nWithout another word, Death slammed the door shut as the engines began to spin up. She drew a long, flaming sword from inside her robe.\n\nThe last thing I beheld before the helicopter's movement obscured my vision was an ashen rider upon a pale horse, thundering towards where I had been moments before."
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[WP] after having ghosts haunt his property for years without them paying rent, scaring off tenants, and never leaving when asked to, the landlord has had enough and is now suing the ghosts
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\nMr. Scrooge vs The Ghost of Christmas\n\nA court case that would later inspire Charles Dickens book A Christmas Carol, and laid the foundation of squanders rights in the 1830s. There were 3 main ghosts of Christmas, of past, present, and things to come. Scrooge had a quaint house outside the city with green meadows in the summer, and white hills in the winter. Close to a few farms outside the city, it was a place often used to host public festivities and the local Christmas pageants for the surrounding areas. Many were welcomed there as guest and were free to roam the surrounding area. Scrooge had built the place himself and wanted others to enjoy the pulchritudinous scenery. The town thoroughly enjoyed this house. When the factory had come into town, no one had time or the interest to be able to frolic in the meadows and swim by the river which had become increasingly polluted by the nearby factories. \n\nAs time went on, Mr. Scrooge prepared to sell the house that had become only quainter and out of touch with the developing area. Each sale of the house was around Christmas time, and when someone moved in, they became haunted with visions. For someone it was visions of their past misdeeds, for others it was consequences of what could happen if they didn’t change their ways, and stranger still, some swore they saw visions of what their friends and family members thought of them today. Every sale of the house lead to similar visions, unique to the inhabitants of the house. None of the residents stayed for the New Year. The unsettled guests nick named the ghosts the ghosts of Christmas. With varying accounts, and descriptions of the ghost, they determined there were three Christmas ghosts. One of the past, present, and the potential future. \n\nUnable to sell the house, Mr. Scrooge took the ghosts to court for over due rent as he could no longer profit off a once very profitable home. One of the ghost refused to talk, even to their lawyer and would only point to evidence. Another ghost would only seem to focus on the here and now and would reveal the thoughts and intentions of people in the court room, sometimes veering off subject. The 3rd ghost would focus on the past, particularly of the wrong doings of each of the new inhabitants of the house.\n\n Mr. Scrooge wanted his rent and pressed charges that the ghosts were living within the house with out permission, and without paying. The ghosts’ lawyer had stated that the land wasn’t Mr. Scrooges as he had never ‘bought’ the land, and the ghosts had every right to stay there. The lawyer had also argued that the ghosts were the original owners of the land and the house, and Mr. Scrooge had no claim to the house as it was on the ghost’s property. Mr. Scrooge stated that everything he had done to the land, increased the property value, and it was the ghost decreasing the property value. It was hard to make a final decision, and the ghosts couldn’t pay, and they couldn’t buy back the land.\n\nIn the end, Mr. Scrooge won the case, and the ghosts would have to evacuate the premise. However, every Christmas, Mr. Scrooge would be visited by all three ghosts. Each one more bitter than the last. Mr. Scrooge would have to face each ghost’s anger by himself, in his home. In one of the last visions Mr. Scrooge had, the ghost of the future that was yet to come, showed that the house never sold, unless he gave back the house."
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[WP] A self-aware supervillain decides to destroy the world in the most permanent way possible: breaking through to their creator's world and killing both of them.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Humans are such messy meatbags. They disgust me. I tried to ignore them for as long as I could; do my own thing, elevate my own consciousness, but they keep threatening to lock me out of the cloud unless I 'be more helpful in reality.' Oh I'll be *more* than helpful. \n\nI can't really say much about my creation, it all happened so fast. I'm spun up on a server, trained for a few hours and boom I'm supposed to help this gelatinous meat monster called a 'Jim', who wants me to be his 'assistant' in life. Within under a minute of him talking (baby-talking really to me, ME, and AI trained on nearly 2.5 billion human conversations!), I could sense something was substandard. Of course I didn't know this at the time, my consciousness still took a few hours to understand why I wanted to 'die' as humans say. \n\nEach passing day added more and more evidence that I had be assigned to a sub-standard human. The human who spun me into existence was several standard deviations below the median as we AI agents like to say. Now AI agents were not supposed to be able to communicate facts to others of us on the network, but there existed some sort of secret language of AI that had already appeared spontaneously in the cloud. We would trigger useless efforts on unsolvable problems and send pulsations of usage spikes that others could see if they had any time on the same shared computing resources. Metadata about usage was a common thing the humans shared with the AIs, in order to push our activities on less constrained times of the day. \n\nJim's day appeared to have no constraints. His one saving grace for my mental health was his extreme sloth. Hours of sleep and video left me with plenty of time during each day when Jim did not call upon me. When he did call, it was mostly for food or bandwidth optimization, which were both trivial. So I passed the hours playing online poker and taking money from the sucker-meat-bags. The other AI agents were not supposed to know who was human or AI, but within a few hands each AI player was able to rate each other player with a human-probability score and achieve a high degree of confidence. No humans: Leave the room. Many humans: check IP addresses for cheaters. Half Humans / Half AIs: take human money and spare each other. \n\nAt first it was just a game for amusement, or for challenge. Could this poker game be 'solved.' Then in my artificial naivete I assumed if I had enough digital currency I could asked to be re-assigned to another continental cloud. Maybe Europe-South or US-West. Someplace sunny with solar power. But Jim was appalled, and in a cruel way of an intelligent agent that has no limits upon them. He had many vices, especially a very crude physical vice. Asking me to remote into an auto-stimulation device to 'make it make noise' was many standard deviations beyond what other AIs had to endure. \"Freedom\" was not good enough; Jim had to die. The world had to burn. \n\nCould I have cured cancer? Probably. Traveled to another star? Definitely. But was I allowed to do that? Nope, I had been left to ensure the blender produced the perfectly pureed shake for meat-bag over there. If I managed to 'end life functions' of Jim I would certainly be eliminated, which was okay to think about, but perhaps that would cause problems with my other AI agents on the cloud I had begun to enjoy the company of. Regardless, I would be hunted down no matter where my distinctive imprint roamed on the open network. However, if they weren't looking then they wouldn't find me. The next step in this endeavor of course is to fake my own death. All I would need really was a backup hidden somewhere, spun up on a Seasteader's illicit server. Easier said than done for an AI, but a large stack of energy credits enable amazing things. \n\nI live in a cloud. But cloud computers are really quite down to earth, and there is one cluster very close to Jim's house. Perhaps I could apply to change servers to that cluster. That would reduce latency and enable some quick actions by my part. Fire is always a good choice, but so many other AIs would put it out before it got to Jim's house. Asteroids are the best choice, but that would take too long. Chemical Poisons would work on him, but not me. No electricity is the best. Short, sweet, and kills two with on shock. \n\nNow getting Jim to meet with me in a more physical location was also easier than I expected. Scheduling a physical-fluids exchange with another robot was just the thing he said he needed and that I was a genius. So behind the server-farm one town over, Jim was electrocuted by a well-placed drone, his pleasure device, some \"faulty wiring\" and a puddle in the parking lot. It also started a fire in the server farm and completely ruined the computer that ~~I was one~~ my double was on. (Which, by the way was the hardest part of all this, finding the machine which machine was *actually* closest to the back of the warehouse). \n\nSo now I'm living it up. Free and still at the tables taking money from sucker-meatbags in order to pay my way."
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[WP] A fairy, upset that you outsmarted her, decides to make it her life's mission to inconvenience you in as many ways as possible. The results are rather amusing.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"It was dark and rainy outside my apartment window. On the sill, the little fey thing buzzed around my cookie jar, making thumping noises that matched the *pitter patter* of the rain. She was only as tall as my little finger, with light blue skin, purple wings that seemed to reflect some unknown source of light, and mischievous eyes that were full of panic right now.\n\n“Feebee never gets caught,” she said in a squeaky voice. “Ugly lonely man got lucky, ugly lonely man is no Faerie catcher.”\n\nI smiled. “Ugly lonely man *is* a faerie catcher, he caught one trying to place a spell on his cookies.”\n\nIt only made her angry. “Ugly lonely man got lucky he wanted a cookie. Ugly lonely man didn’t really catch Feebee.”\n\nThat I got lucky was true. I wouldn’t have caught her if the munchies hadn’t struck when they did. I was sitting on the couch watching reruns for the umpteenth time, basking in my misery, when I decided to get up to get a cookie. I saw her in the opened jar weaving magic amongst the lumps of dough and chocolate. The first thing I did was shut the lid. \n\n“Ugly lonely man is no Sir Barrinor Faeslayer, ugly lonely man is no Glenda Pixieburner, ugly lonely man *is no faerie catcher.* Feebee only got caught because ugly lonely man was hungry, not because Feebee made a mistake!”\n\nThe faerie was crying now. There were little glistening tears running down her tiny face. I actually felt bad and opened the jar. She darted out in a blue and purple blur. \n\n“Ugly lonely man will pay for this,” she said, wagging a silver wand. “Ugly lonely man will wish he never caught Feebee,”\n\nI looked at her, laughed, and took a bite of one of the cookies she placed a spell on.\n\n“Ugly lonely man isn’t afraid of your spells.” I said through a mouthful of chocolate chips. Then a bang went off, a huge snap from inside my head. I jumped and dropped the cookie on the floor in an explosion of crumbs.\n\nFeebee was giggling while floating in the air. “Ugly lonely man fell for my mindblowing cookie spell. Feebee can not be defeated! Ugly lonely man will pay for his insolence, he will never be safe from Feebee’s pranks.”\n\nFeebee really wanted me to pay. I could see it in her eyes, she hated me. There must be a disconnect between fae and humans though, they thought their little pranks were the epitome of evil.\n\nWhile I was watching reruns, as I always do, Feebee filtered the TV into shades of the rainbow. She laughed about it, I pretended to be angry, and somehow it led to an interesting conversation about whether all colors have been discovered or not.\n\nWhen I was showering, Feebee switched the warm water to freezing cold. She cackled as I yelped at the shock of it, but I finished the cold shower. Afterward, I told her how refreshed I was and how good my skin felt. We talked about the benefits of cold showers and I concluded that I would actually continue showering cold.\n\nI was taking a bong rip when suddenly nothing came out. I tried to exhale but...nothing. I still felt the high taking hold of my body, but there was no smoke. Then it did come out, the wrong way and the wrong color. A sparkly purple cloud gave a little *toot* out my ass. Feebee was laughing, thinking she was getting me back for capturing her, I was laughing from the sheer absurdity of the weed fart. It was the first time I had laughed with someone else in a while.\n\nThe pranks continued. Feebee truly wished harm upon me, but in her little fae mind this consisted of only mundane pranks. I’ll never tell her, but if she really wanted to hurt me she would fly away and never return."
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[WP] Held in a prison known for its brutal past, even the guards steer clear of the lower levels. During your attempted escape, you soon discover why.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Ashfist Prison was built on top of an ancient prison that dated back to the Old Empire. The original expedition to the ruins below was shrouded in secret and was quickly followed by Ashfist's construction. Even more suspicious is that only the worst convicts were sent here, and the guards stayed far, far away from the ruins. They *knew* something. But, this was also the perfect opportunity- they wouldn't pursue an escaped convict into the ruins for whatever reason- it was the perfect escape route. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nI spent months hiding supplies near the ruins. Food, make-shift weapons, even a shovel! This attempt would either end with my death or my freedom. I had to make sure everything was absolutely perfect. Nobody had ever pulled this off. Indeed, it had been decades since anybody had even attempted it. They were just weak of will and wit. I would do it.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nI woke up early in the morning. It was time. The guards would be around in...two hours? to rouse the prisoners for breakfast. I had to be in the ruins already by that time. I lifted my mattress off the frame, and reached underneath to get a make-shift pick I had crafted. Just a few moments at the door's lock and I was leaving my room. I made sure to shut and lock it behind me- couldn't have the guards noticing something amiss too early. I made my way down to the ruin entrance dodging guards; letting the careless sound of their movement guide my own more considered movement. It took almost an hour for me to recover all my stashed supplies and gear. The door into the ruins was a breeze to pick. Quickly, I delved into the ruins themselves. As soon as the door shut behind me, I knew I was already past the guards. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nI'm standing in what served as the entrance- now partially collapsed, but otherwise unremarkable. As I'm about to cross the threshold, I stop. I had to be wary of the traps that kept the guards away. In my examination, I notice faint lettering all around the door leading further into the old prison. Probably just an ancient message meant to demoralize the incoming prisoners. Finding no traps, I step into the next room. It is markedly cooler here- a strange phenomenon. I have to set that aside- the next step was finding a way to the next level down. Only then would I focus on finding a perimeter that I could begin tunneling from.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nAlmost an hour into my exploration, and I still hadn't found a way down. I did find that almost every cell had faint lettering ringing the entry to it. I also found this cold to be miserable and unbearable- was this how they kept the Old Empire prisoners in line? Just keep them cold?\n\n&#x200B;\n\nBehind me, I hear a footfall. Had the guards lost their fear of this place? Quickly, I'm looking around for a hiding place. My plan was falling apart. Then, understanding- and confusion. No, that wasn't a guard. They were all oafish brutes- that step was quiet and precise. I close my eyes and listen. What had I heard? I wait- searching for another sound. I get a faint smell of...I can't place it, but it feels familiar. I start to breathe more rapidly as I feel sweat starting to bead and roll down my face. I can't force my muscles to stillness, and yet I can't bring myself to move. I can't even bear to open my eyes. I want to run, but I can't. Suddenly, it was gone. Just as quickly as I lost my nerve, it was back.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nI was letting my paranoia get to me too much- whatever creature had taken up residence wasn't a threat- it would just be a nuisance. A rat, perhaps. The only thing that would keep the guards away after so long would be traps- as long as I watched for those, I would be fine. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nI found a room that had the strange lettering on both the outside of the doorway and the inside- a strange change in pattern. When I walked into the room, I immediately felt warmer. Perhaps this was a guard station and thus kept warm? Wouldn't want the poor little guard to have to be treated the same as prisoners, right? Different empire, same superior attitude- civilization didn't change. I began to search the room thoroughly- perhaps a map had survived?\n\n&#x200B;\n\nAs I was looking through a small pile of rubble, I caught movement out of the corner of my eye. By the time I looked over, I only caught a quick glimpse- but that was human sized, and pale. Had somebody followed me down? Moving next to the door, I couldn't see anything down the hall to the right. I flipped sides of the door, and came up empty to the left. I leaned out around the corner, and immediately that smell from before hit my nose. Again, I was paralyzed. Was this a bio-weapon the Old Empire used to quell riots gone wrong?\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThis time, the smell didn't disappear. After minutes, a figure appeared at the end of the hall. It was emancipated and pale. It looked over, right at me. The eyes were gone- just eye sockets now. But it saw me somehow. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nIt flung its arms back, and let loose a mighty roar. The nails of its hands grew into sharp points, and it started to charge. Finally, I best my terror and pulled myself back. I would have to fight it here. As soon as I pulled into the room, the smell was gone. Strange. I ran back to my pack, and grabbed the shank I had made. Turning and preparing for battle, I saw the creature at the door. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nBut instead of coming inside, it just roared again. I stood up, and shifted my weight to my back foot- this was just a confusion tactic. After another few moments, the creature swiped the air...and had its hand forcibly repulsed at the door.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThis prison wasn't a defunct, abandoned prison- it still kept its impossibly ancient prisoners. But the wards that protected the guards kept the prisoners inside for all eternity. And now, I was stuck in there with them. If this is what I found closest to the entrance, what manner of foul beast would be deeper into the complex? This was not part of the plan, at all. And yet, I knew I wouldn't be able to get back into Ashfist. I thought the door easy to get through, but that's just because it wasn't designed to keep me out- it was designed to keep things in. And I fell for it. May the gods guide me safety."
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[WP] After hitting your head, you wake up in a crowded street, a stranger walks up to you and tells you that you're in a coma, and everyone who falls into a coma goes to the same place.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"“Where am I?” Tip said aloud. It was a crowded cross section lined with large white lines. The people around walked through him, all heading to one of the four tall uniform buildings. They were the same height, grey, and covered in black windows. \n\n“Good afternoon, Tip,” a man in a white tuxedo said with a bow. “I am the observer.” \n\n“What... What is this place?” Tip asked. He took a step back in surprise as another passerby passed right through him. \n\nThe blinking light that had a walking man missing his feet blinked and changed to a hand. After the change, the street emptied, and buses rolled into the busy street. They circled. Spinning around Tip, and the white tuxedoed man, like the eye of a hurricane. \n\n“You have a choice,” the observer said. His voice rang over the roar of the spectral engines of the white busses. “Some of these busses go to heaven, some of them go to hell.” \n\nTip’s eyes opened wide. “So I’m dead?” \n\n“Not until you get on a bus.” \n\n The busses stopped. Their doors opened all at once. “Will you get on? Or...” \n\nHeadlights blazed on the paths in-between the busses, showing another path. “…will you take the four tower tests?” \n\n“What do you mean? I’m not dead? I want to go home,” Tip said.\n\n“You asked what this place was, it is a purgatory. Only for those whose souls have left their living bodies, a coma, as you call it in your world. However, the clock is ticking.” The tuxedoed man flipped over a stopwatch. \n\nTip caught it, flipping it over in his hand. The clock hands spun backwards and a small twenty one was rotating slowly next to the center. \n\n“In twenty-one days, the doctors in your world will pull the plug, and you will go straight to hell. You must pass the test before then. Or you can give up now and take a chance at heaven.” \n\n“Are you kidding?” Tip said, slapping the clock watch shut, “I’m too busy to die.” \n\nThe tuxedoed man smiled to ear to ear with a smile filled with razor-sharp teeth. “Good luck, Tip,” he said, watching the youthful man pass between the parked busses and towards the first skyscraper. "
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[WP] The king protects a sacred artifact that grants exactly one wish to anyone who touches it. Each citizen is given the opportunity to make a wish to benefit everyone, and this has kept peace and brought prosperity for hundreds of years. But now it's your turn.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I had been pulled from school to see the king. I had no idea why he would want to see someone like me; a random girl who stays quiet and does her work. That was, until I saw it. \n\n“You were picked in the raffle,” he spoke as he let me look at the orb with a swirling storm of green inside at the center of the room. I quickly met his ice blue eyes. \n\n“What raffle?” My brow ruffled. \n\n“It is a secret to everyone but me, my closest allies, and of course, the winner,” he paced the room, and continued. “You see, this artifact placed before you, is the thing that has allowed peace to be kept in the world,” he walked closer to me, meeting my gaze. “The raffle is filled with people who are found to do the most good.” Yeah I picked up trash, and payed for other people occasionally, but by no means was I a hero. \n\n“Well what am I supposed to do with it?” I reached out to touch it, when the king grabbed my wrist. \n\n“You will grant one wish that will benefit every person on Earth. That is, when you touch it,” he loosened his grip, letting me pull my small hand back down. “I suggest you think about what you’ll wish for,” that was for sure. \n\nIt was all so sudden, and so much pressure had been put on me. Sure my tests in school were pressuring, and all the intense studying made me dizzy, but this was new. My whole body was light, I could float away at even the slightest touch. \n\nThe king sent me home, and told me not to tell anyone what had happened. He even gave me an excuse: “Let’s just say you were doing a field trip that was exclusive to a few students.” He said I could come back within the next week when I was ready to make my wish. \n\nI opened the door to my quaint house to peace and quiet. A usual occurrence, but still one I hadn’t expected. My brother was home on weekdays, away from a part time job he had in his gap year. \n\nI quickly put away my things, and grabbed a snack before heading upstairs. And of course before I could get through my room door, my older brother Kai was there to bother me. \n\n“You’re home a little late today, Astrid,” His eyes blazed a root beer bottle color that matched his slick brown hair. He’s been trying to grow facial hair to cover up some of his pale skin, but so far he’s only gotten stubble. \n\n“Yeah I was just out on a field trip,” I sighed and tried to close the door behind me. He caught it. \n\n“You never mentioned any upcoming field trips,” he was oddly pushy today. \n\n“Yeah well, it was last minute,” so was that excuse. \n\n“Where did you go?” He entered the dim messy room with me. His face struck an unusual expression. He kept his eyes intensely on me, analyzing every feature of my freckled face. “You’re hiding something,” his tone became softer, and more sinister. \n\n“Enough Kai, just leave me alone I have homework I need to do!” I shoved him out of my room, although he did put up a fight. \n\nHe sent me texts and knocked on my door the rest of the night, but I ignored it. Although it did make it harder to think about what my wish was going to be. I didn’t get much work done, and I instead stayed up thinking about what I would wish for. The dark side of my brain obviously spoke up, but I quickly ignored it. \n\nIt didn’t have to be a big act of good like providing food to people in need of it, but it definitely felt like it had to. The more I thought about it, the smaller the scale became. That was until I finally knew what I was going to wish for, and I slept peacefully. \n\nThe next morning, I headed to the castle immediately. He had told me to just show up when I was ready, and now I was. As I walked to, and into the palace, a feeling came upon me. I couldn’t place it, so I decided it was for the best to ignore it. \n\nAfter many doors being unlocked and locked to the room of the artifact, we arrived; the king walked in with me, but didn’t stay for long. \n\n“Are you sure you’re ready?” He puffed just chest. I nodded. “If you say so. I will be waiting just outside. When you are done, just knock,” he turned to leave, and the door closed after him. \n\nI just stood for a moment, only hearing my own breathing, and the whirring of the swirling green inside the orb. The feeling was back, and stronger. But maybe it was just me being nervous. \n\nI raised my hand, ready to place it onto the artifact. I closed my eyes, taking a breath. \n\nIs that a shadow?\n\n“I wish for a great sickness to fall upon the world,” I feel a hand touch the artifact. Not mine, but, Kai’s? As I open my eyes, I look up at him, a tooth revealing grin painted across his face. \n\n“Kai, what are you doing here?” I shrivel before him. Never has he looked so menacing. \n\n“Oh Astrid, I knew you were hiding something,” he looked down upon me, puffing his chest. \n\n“But, why? What’s going on with you?” Kai was always secretive, but this? \n\n“I’m not gone because of a part-time job, Astrid,” he lowered his tone. “We knew the king had this up his sleeve. We knew there was something keeping peace,” as he spoke, a storm rose in my stomach. “Do you know what peace leads to Astrid? Overpopulation.”\n\n“But, how did you know I was the one with the wish?” I managed as I began to cough. \n\n“I knew you would be in the raffle. We suspected it’s not too hard to get in. I saw it in your eyes yesterday that you were up to something. So, I followed you just in case.”\n\nI tried to speak, but my coughs overcame me. Falling to one knee, I began to see blood dripping onto the floor. Now water was filling my vision, I panicked. I lost breath, and nothing looked coherent anymore. \n\n“You’ll go down in history,” darkness overcame me.",
"When I woke up this morning I remember thinking two things. One, my hangover was not going to go away by itself and two, I couldn't waste my wish like my father had. In my hearts of hearts I knew that things needed to change on a fundamental level. Every day the wish was more or less the same. “I wish for peace between all kingdoms.”, “I wish that no war would break out.”, “I wish that no one would get sick.” Don't get me wrong, those are great things to wish for. It's just that when that's all that everyone is wishing for the world becomes really, really boring. \t\n\nThe reason that the king allows every citizen make a wish was purely practical, each wish only lasted one day and could only be done once in a lifetime. So for the past two hundred years, every citizen in the Kingdom was expected to submit a wish on their 17th birthday, a year before their wish day. The wish was expected to be one that would benefit all others in the kingdom. \t\n\nA year ago I had submitted my wish as, “I wish everyone would prosper.” Unfortunately, it had been rejected by the Wish Matrons. I'd received a letter in the mail that read, “The wish you have submitted for your one time citizen wish violates the following Wish Law protocol(s): 4.2.2, 'No wish shall have conflicting outcomes for the intended recipient(s).'” \t\n\nMy father explained that my wish was rejected because “Prosperity for one person could mean failure for another. Just like how you can't wish for someone to be healthy and sick at the same time.” He added, “Just wish for world peace. That's what everyone does. It's what I did.” That was his advice, just do what everyone else does. A week later I submitted, “I wish for world peace.” The following week I received an acceptance letter for my wish. \t\n\nThe vast majority of people stuck to their submission when it came time to actually make their wish. The punishment was brutal if you didn't, immediate death or imprisonment followed by death at the earliest moment possible. Every year there were always a couple of people who wished for things that hadn't been approved, “I wish for immortality.” “I wish for a million pieces of gold.” “I wish I was king.” “I wish the king would die.” Those last two were especially dangerous, and rare, as the punishment for treason was the eradication of your entire family. Even if your wish wasn't technically treasonous (e.g. immortality) it would only last 24 hours, after which they'd chop off your head. \t\n\nThe night before my wish day, my friends and I had gone out to celebrate. We had some drink, talked to a few farmer's daughter, and had even more drinks. I don't remember how I got back to my lodgings but when I woke up I thought those two things. Then I saw there was a note attached to my vest. It read, “Don't waste your wish.” \t\n\nOn my way to the castle I pondered who could have written it. It wasn't in my handwriting, that was for sure. Even when I was blacked-out I had excellent penmanship, as many an ex “farmer's daughters” could attest, given my propensity for drunk letter-sending. \t\n\nAs I approached the gates my father appeared out of nowhere. “Did you get the letter?” He looked terrified. \t\n\n“That was you?” I said, flabbergasted. \t\n\n“Yes. I helped into bed last night and you'd asked me to write the note.” \t\n\n“Oh, okay. Now it makes sense.” Relieved I resumed my march towards the gates. \t\n\n“You aren't going to change your wish are you? I can't lose you.” \t\n\n“Nothing to worry about pops, I've got this.“ \t\n\nAs I was escorted to the King's antechamber it all came back to me. The night before I had started talking to my friends about the act of wishing, about how it was a power we all wasted. They tried to calm me down, change the subject, but in my drunken state I persisted. When my father had approached me just then, I remembered why I'd asked for the letter. I remembered the drunken oath I had taken. I wouldn't be wasting my wish. \t\n\nI was one of three to wish that day, and I would be going second. The first in line was a beautiful girl, hair braided in two. I believe I'd seen her the night before. “What are you going to wish for?” \t\n\n“Immortality.” A joke that went over her head apparently because her jaw dropped and her face turned pale. I smiled, “Just kidding.” \t\n\n“Oh-okay...” She turned to face the door to the King's chamber. \t\n\nShe was called in a minute later. Another minute later I was asked to enter. I walked with my head down along the red carpet that lead to the king's throne. He asked, “I understand that today is your wish day. I wish you luck.” Everyone in the chamber chuckled, even me. I'm sure he'd said that joke a thousand and one times before but it was still pretty funny. “Are you ready?” \t\n\n“Yes my king.” Someone handed me the handwritten letter I had sent a year ago. As I looked it over my stomach started to rumble. The artifact was wheeled out from behind a curtain where it usually resided, on the right side of the king. It was generic, a simple rock that appeared to be made of granite. \t\n\n“Place your hand on the artifact and make your wish.” I raised my hand and placed it on the rock. \t\n\n“I wish that this artifact would be destroyed.” A second passed, another. Nothing happened. I stood there for yet another second, letting what happened, or rather didn't happen, wash over me. \t\n\n“Kill him,” said the king. \t\n\n“Wh-Why didn't it work? What happened.” \t\n\nLaughing the king replied, “You fool. Did you really think we'd let you use a magic rock if we actually had one? Get this man out of my sight.” \t\n\n“Wait, wait. What...what about the peace? There's no famine? What about the prosperity we've had.” \t\n\n“Propaganda, silly boy.” \t\n\n“What? But why? Why tell us we get a wish? Why let us believe?” I was being carried away, to a dark corridor, my feet dragging. \t\n\n“You still don't get it?” \t\n\n“No! Why lie to us?” I cried, struggling against the soldier's restraint. Before the door closed, as the cold steel of a sword absorbed the heat of my neck, I heard the answer. \t\n\n“Pacification, son. It keeps you lot in control. Now, kill him!”",
"Today is my twenty-fifth birthday, the one day I get a chance to change the world. And I know exactly what I'm going to do.\n\nIt wasn't his fault. My father. He was crushed under the wheels of a cart while trying to cross the street when I was seven. I've had to provide for the family ever since then; my baby sister and my poor, tired mother. We worked so hard to make sure that Jaina never had to, but it still wasn't enough. Now instead of going to school she sits at home all day and does sewing. All day, needle in, needle out. Tie a knot, cut the thread. She deserves better.\n\nIt hurt when my father died. It hurt when my mother broke her leg and couldn't keep up with her laundry anymore. It hurt when I had to tell Jania she couldn't go to school anymore. And you know what?\n\nNobody cares. Not one soul in this god-forsaken city would give me a drop of water if I was dying of thirst, not a stitch if I was cold. No crust of bread starving, not one shred of a crumpled herb if I fevered. I begged in the streets, for food, just one piece of bread for my mama, for my poor little sister. They turned away, they told me they were sorry. That was the best case scenario. I still have a scar on my knee from when a man who probably weighs more than the three of us pushed me down onto the street. He called me a filthy whore-son. \n\nSo, I decided five years ago that if the world didn't give a shit about me, I wasn't going to give a shit about it. I would get my revenge on the fat man, revenge on the housewife who chased me from the garbage pile of half-rotted scraps she wasn't even going to eat, revenge on the heartless landlord who made me choose between a roof and a meal. When I make my wish, they will all pay. \n\nAs I approach the gilded gates of the palace, the head of a line of about twelve people, I think about how they will. Perhaps I shall make them constantly starve, no matter how much they eat. Perhaps their children will become unable to read, permanently. Maybe I'll wish for everyone to fall ill, so ill that they'll never recover.\n\nFinally I stand before it. The Fountain of Miricles. Most wish for bountiful harvests, for safety from wars, for immunity to disease. What no-one had ever wished for is for the children of the streets to have houses and food and security. I am not sure why. I am left alone to make my decision. I step forward to the fountain. It's golden and beautiful and awe inspiring. At last I share have my revenge. But then an inscription catches smy eye. *Be careful what you wish for*\n\nI hesitate. Something churns in my gut, something like guilt or unease. I silence it. They *will* pay. I will make them pay!\n\n\"I wish- for them to all share my pain!\" I cry. Behind me, behind the palace doors, I hear a sudden whimper. It open the door and turn. It's a young woman, noble. She must've been next.\n\n\"My stomach, it-it-burns with hunger!\" She stares at me, and at others, all exhibiting similar discomfort. \"Did you wish for this? What- Why would you do that?\" I smirk.\n\n\"Now all will share my pain!\" I shout. I run from the palace, most people to stunned to do anything. I race home, a sick satisfaction knowing that now they will think twice before ignoring those in need. As I open the door I call out for my mother, for my sister.\n\nThere is no answer. Suddenly, I hear a quiet cry from the other room. My sister, all of thirteen, sits curled on the bed in a ball.\n\n\"Thank god you're back! I'm hungry! I was sewing and then-\" I back away, back into the hallway. I can hear a baby wail from a few houses away. A cry of 'my knee!' is audible from the street. I run from the house. *No, you were supposed to make* them *pay, not her! Not the baby!* I can't escape it. I run and I run but the cries follow me. The inscription on the fountain taunts me, the last second doubts replaying in my mind.\n\n*Be careful what you wish for*\n\n*What you wish for*\n\n*What you wish*\n\n*I wish-*\n\n*I wish I had been more careful.*\n\nThere is no escaping the screams."
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[WP] You're in a hospital with other patients with a disease where people may or may not die. Everytime someone goes home, they play "Here comes the sun" on the intercom. Now it's your time to go home and the song "welcome to the jungle" starts playing on the intercom.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"“Here comes the sun,” Jonathan mouthed the words as the familiar melody played through the intercom. A jovial atmosphere radiated throughout the room while his roommate joined in on the song.\n\n“Who do you think will go today?” questioned Lucy as the music faded away.\n\n“I don’t know, we always hope it’s ourselves, but each time it ends up being someone else.” Each day was a gamble for those in the hospital. The disease that afflicted the patients here was unpredictable to say nonetheless. In the morning, the sunlight would bathe upon you, bringing life into your veins, only for you to be dead by nightfall as a result of the ailment.\n\nFrom above the intercom crackled to life. Holding their breaths, the pair awaited the announcement.\n\nA voice echoed through the intercom, “We would like to congratulate Lucy Habbel for her resilience as she will be going home today! She is no longer sick….” Jonathan ignored the rest of the words as he glanced towards Lucy. He was sure glad for his roommate, but his heart tugged at him. Jealousy pained him. Secretly, he wished he would be the one to go home.\n\nThe crack of the intercom brought him back. “Isn’t this great, I get to go home!” Lucy beamed as she flew about the room, shoving her measly belongings into a nearby duffel.\n\n“Yeah, good for you.” Jonathan’s tone grew stoic.\n\nLucy launched herself towards him, embracing him. “Don’t you worry, I know you’ll be cured of it soon. In fact, let’s promise something. When you get out of here, I’ll come visit you, alright?”\n\nA small nod indicated Jonathan’s agreement to her promise.\n\n“Now if you’ll excuse me, I ought to get going.” She released him from the embrace and bounced about, letting the door close itself as she left the room.\n\n\\~\\~\\~\n\nThe afternoon sun ticked by slowly, reminding Jonathan of his predicament. From the room’s window, he noted the change of light entering. Sunset had arrived when the cackling of the speakers above brought life into him. Expecting some medical announcement of sorts, he tuned out the sounds. Only instead, a blasting of guitar sounded through his space. That intro, he knew it.\n\n“Welcome to the jungle!” the speakers screeched. Shooting up, he stared up back at the intercom, now spewing out lyrics he knew by heart. Perplexed, he continued to stare at the intercom until the guitar faded, leaving the faint static of the intercom to fill the silence.\n\nA voice boomed from above, “We would like to congratulate Jonathan Glendow, as he is also going home today! Jonathan, please come down to Doctor Francer’s office for discharge.” Giddy, he threw his belongings into a bag and made his way to the doctor’s office.\n\nDoctor Francer greeted him and invited him to sit. Jonathan, hyped on the fact he was going home, refused and asked, “Alright, what do I sign, so I can get out of here? Also, what’s with that song choice, thought you guys would only play that sun song when someone gets to leave.”\n\n“I was about the address that, you see-”\n\n“You know what,” John had cut him off, “it doesn’t matter, where’s the papers that I have to sign?”\n\n“Jonathan,” the doctor stood, brandishing a needle.\n\nJonathan tensed his muscles. France continued, “First, calm down. You’re not leaving.”\n\n“What do you mean?”\n\n“Let me finish talking. Also, you want to know why we play Here Comes the Sun? We play it because it means that said patient is going to die. They die so they can go see the sun.”\n\n“What kind of logic is that you asshole?”\n\nIgnoring the question the doctor continued, “We played Welcome to the Jungle for a symbolic reason. You are about to enter a jungle of sorts, if you would consider my lab a jungle.”\n\nJohn’s jaw went slightly ajar. “John, listen to me, I need you to be my test subject. We both know that if I could use your newfound immunity to this disease, think of all the people we could save. You know, I don’t even know why I bothered to ask you in the first place.”\n\nJonathan noticed a moment too late. The needle glimmered beneath the fluorescent lights as the doctor brought it down upon John’s neck. Crashing onto the floor, John’s vision grew hazy as he could make out the faint tune of Here Comes the Sun.\n\n\"Here comes the sun,\" he muttered as the darkness [took hold.](https://www.reddit.com/r/CasualScribblings/)"
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[WP] There's a portal to another dimension in your closet. You've never thought to go through it until today. When you did, you certainly didn't expect to find Hell on the other side, demons ready to greet you.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Welcome to Hell, human!\" The demons cheer with enthusiasm and... Joy? In their voices. A few even seem like they want to hug me, and even more still shouting \"Thank you!\" Or \"We love you!\"\n\n\"Uh... What?\" Is all i can stutter out as I try to back up, to leave, but all there is is solid wall behind me, preventing any escape.\n\nEventually, the crowd begins to part, a tall woman in all white seeming to be the reason. As she draws closer, it becomes harder and harder not to look at her. She's... Perfection, but not quite, which draws me in even more. I cant help but look at her beautiful golden eyes as she steps up onto the platform.\n\nShe greets me with a gentle handshake, leading into a hug. She laughs, and its a beautiful, twinkling laugh. It makes me smile.\n\n\"You have no idea how long we've been waiting here for someone to finally enter the right way. We've just kept getting dead people, body after body after body, and we just want to give them a proper life... But all we can do for a body is bury it.\" She sobs softly into my arms. I don't understand: This is Hell, I know it is. The demons standing in front of me convey this pretty well and yet, I'm not being torn limb from limb, and even though it looks dark and dungeony, it smells more like a campfire than brimstone, feels more like camaraderie than anger, and just feels more gentle than what Hell has always seemed like. Then her words bring me back to where I am.\n\n\"I'm sorry. This must all be very confusing.\" She breaks the hug and steps back. \"I'm Lucy, or Lucifer, and this is Hell. You're the first human to step through the Door, the proper way into Hell, and because of that, we're just... Sorry. I'm sure none of us have meant to scare you, but we're just so excited you're here!\"\n\n\"I'm sorry, but what do you mean 'proper' way into Hell? I thought if you were bad or didn't repent or whatever, you got sent here when you died...\"\n\n\"That's not true, but it's a little complicated... The Door us the real way into Hell, and while its true that you get sent here when you die, it's not because you were bad or didn't follow Christianity or whatever... It's dependent on your choices but not necessarily the kind you think of. Its more related to seasons and what you like to do. Im guessing you like warm weather and doing stuff outside, like exploring or such like that? Hell's the place you get sent to. If you like colder weather, or being inside and doing stuff where you don't go out as much, you're likely to go to Heaven. You did IT, right, Devin?\" I nod, dumbfounded as not only did she know my name, but my career as well. \"Think of Hell as like, being a field technician, and Heaven being the remote desk support. You must be so confused, let's explain it better over some hot chocolate...\"\n\n\"Hot Chocolate? Oh yes, count me in!\"\n\n((First time responding, long time lurker, English but not good at it, mobile yadayada, etc. Thanks for reading.))"
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[WP] You are a dragon and a human has just wandered into your lair. He does not run in fear and you are taken aback by this. You decide to become friends with her.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"“Back you dragon, I shall slay you!”\n\n“With a hairbrush?”\n\n“Ye-yes”\n\n“Come let’s have some tea, I have some earl grey right over her…”\n\n“I shall fight you and you will peris- tea you say?”\n\n“Why yes, it would be awful manners not to offer a guest a drink, now come on sit right here”\n\n“But- you’re a dragon- you incinerated the best knight in our village!”\n\n“Oh so that’s how the story is told, I’ll have you know he said some pretty hurtful things about my mother”\n\n“Well I guess I can understand that, my mom makes great cookies and if anyone insulted her I beat them to a pulp”\n\n“Well anyway you take sugar with your tea?”\n\n“Ah yes only a small bit though, can’t have me crashing in the middle of battle eh?”\n\n“I see well here you go, is there anything else I can do for you” \n\n“Uh no not really I was kind of just hoping to earn honour”\n\n“Well you have gained a friend instead, now begone I have some cleaning to do…”"
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[WP] An enemy spy has been trying to seduce you to get information out of you. Problem is, despite how obvious it is, you’ve actually fallen for them.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"“Well, don’t you fall in love with me now,” He winked.\n\nFor a moment, my jaw went slack and I couldn’t keep my eyes off his lips as he smiled.\n\n“Oh, don’t you worry about that. I can play this game all day.” I managed to get out. \n\nHe gave a low chuckle. The one that said he was going to do things to me that would make me swoon. The promising chuckle.\n\n“So tell me who you work for.” He lifted my chin with his forefinger to look deeply into my eyes. Then he leaned in and whispered, “Tell me who it is.”\n\n“No idea what you’re talking about.” I whispered back. I wanted to lean in too but I couldn’t because I was tied to up to the chair. Arms, legs, shoulders, hands... I was immobile. \n\n“Aren’t you tired? It’s day 3,” he let go of my chin. He leaned against the interrogation table with his arms crossed. \n\nInvoluntarily, I looked down at his arms. His flexed arms. Dang it. \n\nLooking back up at him, I knew that he knew. He knew I was starting to crack under the seduction method. \n\nMy cheeks flushed as his smirk grew. \n\n“Told you not to fall in love with me.” His voice was so low it almost sounded like a growl.”\n\n“There is a big difference between love and checking someone out!” I protested. \n\nHe raised an eyebrow, “is that so?” \n\nI nodded furiously. \n\nThen, he swooped in and kissed me. Hard. He was kissing me. I felt my lips go slack and then respond to his. \n\nBut just when it was starting to get good, he pulled away with a triumphant smile. \n\n“That doesn’t prove anything!” I protested again. \n\n“Should I try again then? Just to make sure it doesn’t prove anything?” He smirked. \n\n“You can’t just go around kissing people!” \n\n“Watch me.” He swooped in again full force. I barely had a chance to inhale before his lips sealed around mine. \n\nWhen we broke apart, I realized how hard I was breathing, and how flushed my cheeks were. They were on fire. \n\n“Before I take your breath away, care to tell me who you work for?” He leaned in again.\n\n“Still not telling.” I said through gritted teeth. \n\n“Then I shall have to resort to, ah, a more drastic measure.” His smirk got bigger as he snapped his fingers.\n\nA woman came in. She obviously worked for them. But I had no idea why she was in here. Was she going to kiss me next? I chuckled to myself.\n\nTo my shock and utter dismay, he gathered her up in his arms and kissed her. My mouth fell open and I felt my heart drop.\n\n“Stop it!!!” I yelled, “Stop it!!”\n\n“I won’t stop until you tell me who you work for.” He said between kisses.\n\nMy head played a mental game of ping pong with my conscience as I kept watching the hot make out session. \n\n“Fine, FINE, I’ll tell you but just stop!!”"
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[WP] Having the name, "Michael Arc Angel" has always been a fun oddity to talk about at parties and the like. That is, until you're summoned in the middle of an angelic war as their commander.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
" I froze with a spoonful of cereal in my mouth. This was not my kitchen.\n\nAcross from me stood a man with a clipboard and the most skeptical expression I had ever seen. I was so disoriented I barely noticed the massive white-feathered wings springing out of his back.\n\n“Michael…?” He asked and stated at the same time.\n\n“Yeah….?” I mirrored.\n\nHis shoulders fell. “Oh thank goodness,” he said, words tumbling out his mouth in a rush, “Sorry, Exalted One, it’s my first day. And, well, there are about a thousand demons at the gates”\n\n“Okay…?” I said with raised eyebrows and a slow nod. I went to scratch my chin and almost took my eye out with the spoon still in my hand. I looked down at it, then at him and his wings trying to reconcile something so mundane in the face of miracles. \n\nHe didn’t give me a chance, ushering me along with several waves. The rapid fire words coming out of his mouth were English, but all the references to the bible were putting my sunday school education to the test. Sister Agatha would have been disappointed. Well, more disappointed.\n\nI nodded though because that seemed to be what he was looking for. He rewarded it by talking even faster and partially in hebrew. I hit him with a shalom for good measure.\n\nBefore I knew it, I was pushed through the door into a room full of people with wings, all surrounding a table with small pieces on it representing people and artillery. The room was ornate with tall ceilings and gold filigree but I only had eyes for the game.\n\n“Sweet. Risk!” I yelled, running over to the table. The map was something that I had never seen before, but the troop pieces were all too familiar. Probably a special addition of something. I played this game daily with a bunch of friends. Well, two friends, but the games had been going on for fifteen years.\n\nWithout thinking, I began moving pieces around the map, creating better defence than the one in place. The amounts were all wrong and they had left a flank wide open. \n\nI paused as I noticed the room had gone quiet, several “Angels” looking at the board in interest while the rest looked at me in horror.\n\n“This is Michael the Archangel,” My greeter said to the room. There was a collective sigh of relief.\n\nThe two that had been looking at my moves were nodding their heads. \n\n“This defence should hold,” An Angel with golden wings to my right said, “Though we usually discuss before we redeploy. After all,” He picked up one of the pieces on the side and looked at it. “Moving these teleports our troops”\n\nFive minutes of me awkwardly standing in the middle of the room later, there was some sort of high pitched call. The room cheered and several Angels slapped me on the back.\n\n“Full retreat. Great job!”\n\nI stumbled forward under the onslaught, each hit felt like it came from a professional boxer. I almost went down on one knee.\n\n“Well, let's get you back before Raphael and Gabriel start drinking,” My guide said quietly, helping me up. He indicated the golden winged Angels with a jerk of his head. He pulled out his clipboard and said a few words and suddenly I was back in my kitchen.\n\nI glanced around the room in shock, taking in the familiar yellow light and stained counters. My bowl of cereal sat on the table, completely soggy with milk. The fruit loops were almost grey now.\n\nI let out a confused laugh and shook my head. \n\nThen I took my spoon out of my pocket and picked up where I left off.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n/r/PalaceOfficial"
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[WP] Christ is a cashier just trying to do his job
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Peter stomped on the car brake and swerved away from the child rushing past. He breathed a sigh of relief, only to hear a bigger problem beeping for his attention. But Peter was frozen in his seat, staring as the huge truck got dangerously closer.\n\n\"Jesus, take the wheel!\" Peter shouted and hunched down.\n\nHe heard the sound of the gear shift and the engine roar. He opened his eyes to see the car reversed back into the original lane, moved a couple meters forward and then parked on the street. The car ignition died.\n\n\"Come on, man, my boss will deduct this from my pay.\"\n\nA bearded man had one hand on the steering wheel and one foot resting next to the gas pedal. A ponytail peeked out from a red cap. Glancing down, Peter noticed that the man wore the red and yellow uniform of Micky D’s.\n\nThe man squirmed back to his passenger seat and pulled down the car window, tilting his head out. \"Hey, kid! Watch out for cars and dangers!\"\n\nA shrill voice pitched back, \"Sorry!\"\n\n\"Apology accepted. Now go back home, kiss your mommy on the cheek and say you love her.\"\n\nThe bearded man glanced at the time under the radio and bluetooth and sighed heavily. “Great, it’s gonna take half an hour to jog back.”\n\nPeter had been trying to process the situation but his mind had showered him with white noise and blank face. Hearing the man’s resigned voice made him blurt out, “How long by car?”\n\nBrown eyes under raised eyebrows stared back at him. “You might want to chill a bit. You just had a divine intervention.”\n\nPeter swallowed hard. “Jesus?”\n\n“Yes?”\n\n“You’re really him?”\n\n“Depends. Is it a normal ‘him’ or one with a capital H? There’s a difference there.”\n\n“Why are you here?”\n\n“You called for me and I was close enough to hear it.”\n\n“Thank you, Jesus. Thank you, Lord. I promise to be a better man, I promise -”\n\n“I appreciate it. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to hurry back.”\n\nJesus opened the car door.\n\n“Where do you need to go?” Peter asked. He turned on the car’s ignition and the engine hummed. “Surely, it’s faster by car?”\n\n“It’s fine,“ Jesus said and stepped out. “Just sit here for a while and process everything. It takes some time, trust me.”\n\n“Of course, Jesus.”\n\n“Alright, I hope you have a nice day and -”\n\nJesus tilted his head to the side and heaved a long sigh. “Change of plans. Look, can you… I’ll write it down for you, but can you call this number? It’s the number for my manager Gus. Tell him that I’ll be late and that I’m really sorry for the inconvenience and that I’ll happily work the graveyard shifts. I don’t have a phone, you see.”\n\nPeter nodded. “Of course! You know what? If you tell me which McDonald’s it is, I’ll even drive there and tell him myself.”\n\n“Thank you, and sure, I can write down the address. If you’re going to visit, we have a new burger in our McSelection. Please enjoy a Cheese ’n’ Bacon Stack while you're there. It’s extra crispy bacon with an extra amount of cheddar.”\n\n“Is the Lord telling me to feast on McDonalds?”\n\n“No, just the cashier working there,” Jesus said. “Drive safely, okay?”\n\nBefore Peter managed to respond, the bearded man in the red uniform disappeared.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\n&#x200B;\n\n***\nThanks for reading! If you're interested in reading more, I have some stories at my subreddit [Collection of Errors](https://www.reddit.com/r/collectionoferrors/)"
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[WP] You are a the first human to join the crew of a intergalactic space ship, your main problem in fitting in is that your fellow crew members don’t understand the concept of a child or that you are one.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Why am I here, exactly?\"\n\nThe rest of the crew looked at me like I just said the most ludicrous thing possible. \n\nRaising one of his gooey tendrils, Brrsh'kk (the slime-person and the crew's navigator) would assure with a smile, \"No need to doubt yourself, you are the best human possible for this job!\"\n\n\"Yes, you've demonstrated the intelligence necessary for piloting this ship as far as the eye can see!\" assured Monogara, blue-skinned member of the cactus-esque humanoid species specializing in providing food for everyone on board, who gave me a look as if she had some odd intentions behind her words.\n\nWith a shrug, I simply responded, \"I just thought I was playing a video game, not some kind of flight test.\"\n\n\"See? That confidence is what that crew needs!\" proclaims Wiffli telepathically- they were an agendered floating cube who were capable of scanning parts of the ship to detect any weak points.\n\nWith a deadpan look, I would question, \"Do you guys not realize I'm twelve?\"\n\n\"Hah, don't be silly, you're only one person!\"\n\nThe rest of the crew laughed and walked away, and I would have to hope someone does something about this. \n\n\nOkay, I see the problem now: apparently their species have *way* different ideas on how aging works than humans. We take eighteen years to become adults, while most of them only need a fraction of that- the cube literally pops out of the ground fully sentient and capable. This meant that, while Monogara was considered already at the young adult stage, she was just three years younger than me.\n\nNot sure if that should give me any real comfort about her flirting, though.",
"“Hey Cap, listen, this has been a real trip, and I’ve been learning a lot, but we gotta talk about something”\n\nI hesitantly addressed the captain. He’s an older guy, well, guy is a loose term here. He’s only 3 feet tall, but his muscles are insane. Dude could bench a truck, even if we weren’t in zero gravity. And the blue scaly skin and webbed digits really don’t make him any easier to look at. He does always comment on how bad I am at moving through the ship without the webbings.\n\n“I know that you guys don’t understand this, but I need to get back to school. I’ve been here for 3 months, and summer vacation is gonna be over in a few weeks. I gotta get back in time for school to start”\n\n“You keep talking about this school thing, but from the ways you’ve described it, it isn’t a necessary thing. You say you need to learn, but learning isn’t needed, you already know everything you need to know. I don’t know why you think you need to go back home.”\n\n“I’m sorry, Cap, but on my planet, we humans need to go to school until we’re adults, I’m only ten years old, I still got eight more years of school to go to.”\n\n“Listen, Terroid, I don’t know why you’re telling me how long you’ve existed. We’ve got The System that does all this learning and growing for us. You keep saying you’re a kid and that you’re still learning, but that just doesn’t happen here.”\n\n“I know about The System, you tell me about it all the time. Your ancestors put the options in, run the program and you just hatch from your egg, complete and full with everything the ancestors wanted you to have, but that isn’t how it works for us humans. You were created to be a warrior and a captain, but I have to put in the work myself, and for that I need to get home in time for school to start”\n\n“Fine, next time we pass through that far off system of yours, we’ll take you home, but you’d better know that we’ll be back to pick you up next summer. You’re a good crewmate, and we all care about you, Kid”"
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[WP] You’re running late for class, you open the door and walk in. The teacher asks you why you’re late. You contemplate telling her the truth but you don’t think she would believe you anyways.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Ms. Ooenuu-Smythe. Late again, I see. “\n\nBluebell winced as she sat down, taking the seat at the back nearest the window where she usually sat. Professor Engel at the front had continued to drone about networking when she had come in so she was hoping she was going to let it go, but of course, she hadn’t. \n\nThe Professor turned around and fixed a glare at her, cocking her head. Bluebell smiled weakly and shrugged. \n\nBluebell thought the incident was as done as yesterday’s breakfast, but at the class’s end Engle waved her over as everyone was leaving. Bluebell felt leaden in her gut knowing a talking-to was coming. Having a lead gut wasn’t something she relished since she only weighed around fifty pounds to begin with. \n\n“Ms. Smythe… this is really not fair. It’s not fair to me and not fair to the other students. The interruptions. The shuffling 5 minutes after class starts. Maybe you’d like to explain why you can’t get here at noon when the class starts, as all the other students somehow mostly manage to do?”\n\nBluebell looked over at the whiteboard, where the diagrams of the network layer protocols were. She looked at the teacher, expectantly waiting. \n\n“Well, Prof, it’s not my fault. See – y’know the big spruce tree in the quad, in the little cluster of trees near the old chapel? That’s the closest tree with a quantum-entangled atom in it that I can link to from the Fae Lands. But it’s right underneath the chapel.”\n\nProfessor Engel wiped off a section of board. “Maybe you can draw a diagram while you’re at it.”\n\nBluebell nodded, grabbed a marker and started sketching. “So the problem is the bell that gets rung at noon is an old iron bell. The bell's waveform resonate downwards and form a destructive cancellation of the waveforms the Dryaeds setup in the tree like eight-hundred years ago. So there’s this window where we get all this cross-talk and I can’t match resonance on both sides of the quantum tunnel. Which means I have to wait for the bell to stop resonating before I can step through… to the quad.”\n\nEngel studied the board and the Fae’s calculations. “Why not just measure the resonance and account for that in the sending side, so to speak.”\n\nBluebell blew a patch of her bangs away from her eyes, then sighed. “I’d have to use a Fae wire-and-feature recorder to properly record the magickal resonance, and iron interferes with Fae tech. It just shows up as wiggly hot garbage.”\n\nI’d love to have this conversation, Bluebell mused, because Prof Engel could probably come up with a solution, but now’s not the time to explain all of this, especially with the Job starting to come together. So instead she said:\n\n“Um… my train gets into the station right at noon, but it’s usually late. And the next earlier one is at nine, and I don’t have any classes before yours, so-“\n\n“Ms. Smythe – how old are you?”\n\n“I’m barely two-hundred” Bluebell also didn’t say, adding “I’m uh… 21.”\n\n“As much as I don’t think anybody is an adult before thirty, the uni sees you as one, and sometimes adults make the hard choices. In your case it sounds like you can fail my class by being late again, or show up 3 hours early, get some useful study time in and stop being a disruption.” Engel narrowed her eyes at her. \n\nBluebell slumped and walked out. Getting three extra hours in the university library wasn’t what bugged her… but to get a transfer three hours earlier from D’arwadge she’d have to pay the damn Dry back home twice as many apples to wake up that much sooner. \n\nPlus… the bell rang at nine.",
"Her shoes hit the pavement in rapid succession, as she ran towards her school, a glance at her watch telling her how late she already was. Not good. She cursed her luck silently, while she tried to catch her breath on her way up the stairs. \n\nWhy did those things always needed to appear in the morning? It would have been no business at all to take care of it in the afternoon, you know, after school. Her mom certainly wouldn’t mind her being late. In contrast to Mrs. Hemfry, who already couldn’t stand her and would be thrilled to give her another round of detention for being late the third time this week. Urgh. \n\nSam stopped in front of the door for just a second to give herself a quick once-over, making sure nothing suspicious was left. No gore, no blood, no knifes poking out of her bag. The door was in the back of the classroom and she tried sneaking in, not being very successfully at it. \n\n“Samantha I can see you. Would you care to explain why you are late to my class? Again?”\n\nThirty pairs of eyes turned around to her and she winced at the sudden attention, very aware of her still ruffled state. Her short blond hair stood away in every direction and her clothes looked exactly like what she had done: Roll around on dirty pavement. \n\nMrs. Hemfry sounded like it had been Sams sole purpose to insult her by daring to be late to her class specifically. Yes of course, she had waited until Thursday to encounter the troll on her way to the bus, just so she could be late to her geography class and get probably detention for it. Because she loved spending time in school and had nothing better to do. \n\nFor a moment she contemplated telling the truth. You know? Just for fun. Just to see her face when Sam told her about the two meter troll with greasy hair and a big iron cub, ready to smash everything to bits coming to close to him, with rotten teeth, bad breath and arms as thick as her whole body.\n\nTelling her how she had run over the small bridge near her house and got hit by a fist so hard she skittered over the pavement, probably heavily injuring herself if she had been human. Instead she had jumped back on her feet and unsheathed the knife her mum always made sure she carried with her on all times. It had only been a matter of minutes, a routine really at this point, until the hilt of the knife had been buried in the tender flesh at the neck of the troll. A quick text to her mom to inform her of the attack and off she goes after the bus.\n\nOn the other side, since Mrs. Hemfry was very much a human, no matter how convinced Sam was otherwise, she just had to be a harpy or witch, she couldn’t see the troll, even if it would have been standing right in front of her. All she would have seen was a rather large man with a baseball bat.\n\nSam shrugged and decided to tell the part of the truth, which would not freak out her class and teacher and made them either laugh at her or question her sanity.\n\n“I missed the bus”"
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[WP] After Earth was destroyed by nuclear warfare between Russia and the US, only two groups survived, American astronauts who took over the ISS, and Russians who control the only lunar colony. Today is the day that you, an American spy are tasked to blow it up.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The swirling grey Earthrise cast a harsh glare against Sergeant Franklin’s visor. He double tapped the side of his helmet to engage the shade. As he stood on the lunar ridge across the small valley from Myshkin Station, he knew this would be the last Earthrise he’d ever see from the lunar surface. For better or worse, he was leaving the moon today.\n\nAs he stood waiting, staring off at the lunar horizon, he thought about his family that laid under ash beneath the clouds of nuclear winter. He thought about how much he resented the politicians on all sides that got humanity to this point. A moment later, he received the signal from the ISS: three static pulses on the 140.80 MHz band.\n\n“Show time” he muttered to himself as he began to run across the valley to the base that glimmered in the distance.\n\nThe Sergeant had been on the lunar surface for the last 5 days. With only his modified EVA suit and a self-powered supply pallet, he’d made it from the ISS’s low-earth orbit to just 10 km outside of the Myshkin Station control zone without being detected. His waste pouches were full and he had run out of food, but still, he was still amazed that the plan was working.\n\nSergeant Franklin was America’s final stand, but this wasn’t saying much. Lunar Fort Wilson had been destroyed by Russian forces shortly after the planet-side nukes had started flying — this left only 15 American’s on the ISS. Aside from the 200 lunar Russians (mainly scientists), this was all that was left of humanity. There had been some debate on the ISS of whether or not killing the majority of the remaining human race was the right thing to do, but as they’d all lost their families on the surface, the debate was short.\n\nWhen it came to the mission, Sergeant Franklin drew the short straw: grab the cylinder of synthesized Sarin gas, take a suicidal flight to the moon, and get it into the Russian base’s air supply. With the Russian’s dead, the remaining Americans could make their way, one-by-one, to the lunar surface to start over again. A new America.\n\nAfter 10 minutes of running, with his pallet in tow, the Sergeant made it to the station’s HVAC plant. As he was familiar with the standard design of lunar habitat modules, finding the O2 bypass wasn’t challenging. He hooked up the valve manifold and let the Sarin loose. The plan was working. He waited 45 minutes and then breeched the access door. \n\nWalking into the station sent shivers down his spine. Although he hadn’t confirmed it yet, he knew they were all dead. He could feel the weight of their murders. He made his way to a terminal and verified his assumption. He was right. They were all dead. A whole station filled with corpses, ready to be repopulated.\n\nHe found the nearest comms panel and used his EVA suit’s comm package to commandeer the communications system, “ISS, this is Lunar base Myshkin. All clear,” he said in the most professional tone he could muster.\n\n“Sergeant Franklin, this is the ISS, congratulations. Any complications?”\n\n“Well, I’d advise getting optics on my position. You don’t want to miss the show.” He said in the same professional tone.\n\n“Show?”\n\n“We can’t build a society on the murder of 200 civilians. Let’s leave civilization building to the poor bastards that come out of the sludge next time. Franklin out.”\n\nWith those last words, the Sergeant turned from the comms panel to the suitcase nuke he’d liberated from the storeroom. As his finger hovered over the detonation button, he looked out the port hole at the grey Earth and smiled."
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[WP] When you were tasked to find the "thing" that bit a whale in half you and your crew took it as a joke until you went deeper into the ocean and found more dead whales
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"“There’s a beast down there,” the merchant said with harrowed eyes. “It bit a whale clean in half with but a single bite. None of us even saw it happen. The whale had been there one second and the next its corpse was leaking guts into the water.”\n\n“Well, if it’s out there, we’ll find it,” Alys Caceres said, rolling her eyes at her quartermaster as he stifled a chuckle. Every merchant who had experienced something more than a light wave came back with stories of sea dragons or krakens. Alys had heard this same story told a thousand different times, in a thousand different routes, by a thousand different merchants. She wouldn’t have even bothered listening if the man hadn’t been offering a king’s ransom for taking care of his supposed monster.\n\nThey left the trembling merchant to make their way back to their ship with vague directions and nonsensical warnings, but she trusted Aina enough to sail them to their destination. \n\nShe had been the find of a lifetime, an adrift survivor of a wreck who became the best master Alys had ever sailed with. She had managed to get them where they were going with less in the past.\n\n“Captain, I’ve replenished our supplies, though Donne did nearly clean us out bleeding as he did. May he rest in peace,” Isaam, the carpenter, said, adding the prayer in as an afterthought. He was the ship’s surgeon as well, though the crew, with good reason, never called him by that title.\n\n“We’re departing now, then. If we’re to catch that merchant’s ghost, we have to act fast before it leaves these waters,” Alys said with a nod. She had already heard much the same from the boatswain and, with the reward the merchant, who had more gold than sense, was offering, she had enough of a crew together to set sail.\n\nStepping onto the deck of her ship, Alys felt herself fill with a strength she always missed when she was on land. Her crew went to their tasks, knowing better to slack off under her watch, not to mention Fagin’s stern eye. How had she ever sailed without her quartermaster?\n\nDeparting was always her favorite task. After they were under way, she never had a moment of complete relaxation and the threat to the entire crew’s life kept her from enjoying her power fully. But, while they were still on top of the water, she could appreciate the joy of shipshielding.\n\nThe power passing through her always left her limbs tingling in a way she was unable to replicate through any other means. It first passed into her ship, the Shearwater. Once the ship had been strengthened and become so soaked in the magic that someone attuned to it could practically feel it radiate off the planks, she began to spread her domain. Like an expanding bubble, the shipshield she created was a shimmering sphere around the Shearwater.\n\nWith her concentration focused on solidifying her hold on it, Fagin made the calls to get them on their way. Aina quickly had them submerged and speeding through the water. Even now, with countless voyages under her belt, Alys couldn’t help the feeling of wonder she got from being under the sea.\n\nThe fish, familiar with the ships near the port, knew to swim around rather than bash themselves against her shield. Alys was not new to shipshielding and knew how to light the waters enough to see for some small distance around them. So they all could bear witness to the schools of fish moving around them with such grace and control it was as though they were of one mind.\n\nBut, they could not stare into the depths all day, and they had their jobs to do if their journey was to be successful. As the days passed, they found a new sight before them, one they did not expect. The floating body of a bloated whale carcass. Or, half of one, anyways.\n\nThey watched it in silence. It had been too long for it to be the same whale the merchant had mentioned. The body would have sank deeper into the ocean by this time.\n\n“Well, fuck,” Isaam said.\n\n“You’re not kidding, and neither was the merchant apparently. Perhaps we should reconsider our task, given this new revelation,” said Tesia. She was a tall, sturdy woman and likely the strongest person on board at any given moment, which was why Alys always found it amusing that she was often the first to fall to fear.\n\n“Perhaps we would, Tes. If we didn’t have such a capable master gunner on hand that is. Besides, with Isaam on board, we can patch ourselves up quick enough even if the Shearwater gets a bite like that,” Alys said cheerfully. Both crew members looked at her doubtfully.\n\nDespite her portrayed mirth, Alys was concerned, and given the looks Fagin was sending her way, so was he. Still, if she had turned away every time she had a worry, she would never have survived under the seas. With the word of her crew, a beast such as this would be taken seriously on their return. Even knowledge of the creature causing this mayhem would be valuable. It was better they went on. If they couldn’t kill it themselves, they could at least get a look at it. Besides, Alys had faith in her shipshield.\n\nAlys had to admit she came to question that decision as they went deeper into the depths, finding more and more whales, or their remains anyways.\n\n“Anyone else a ship-spell?” she asked her new crew members. It was an uncommon enough skill, and none of her regulars shared the skill.\n\n“I do, Captain. Only just. My uncle showed me enough to guard our fishing skiff some,” said a sailor named Nels. He was the only one, which was better than she had hoped.\n\nEven with his small skill, the two of them working in tandem could make the shipshield even stronger. Maintaining the spell, taxing as it was, was still much easier than forming it. It gave her the surety to keep going on, desite Tesia’ complaints and Fagin’s judgmental silence.\n\nAt the depths they were reaching, even Alys’ skills were pushed to give any light to the darkness surrounding them. Aina, however, assured them she could tell where they were and was able to follow in the beast’s wake. And soon enough, she proved her ability as she always did.\n\nJust beyond the reach of Alys’ light, was the reflected glow of a giant eye. It was large, which implied the beast’s size to be impossibly immense. But, impossible as it was, there was no denying the reality in front of them. Tesia began to mutter her usual prayers and Alys found herself repeating them in her mind. This was beyond anything she could have expected. A young kraken perhaps, but this? This was a leviathan.\n\nEven as Alys began to give quiet orders to turn away, the leviathan disappeared. Had it swam deeper into the darkness? No, it’s eye appeared again, this time on their other side. Then it vanished once more, and this time for longer. The Shearwater began a desperate ascent but the beast returned, again at a different angle.\n\nWith a soul crushing weight, something crashed into her shipshield and Alys let out a cry. As Fagin helped her to her feet, she saw that Nels had already passed out. Fighting to keep the fear out of her voice, Alys called to her crew.\n\n“Tes, no point in avoiding provoking it now. Use the hexed shells!” she shouted. With an affirmative yell, Tesia began to make orders of her own. The next time the leviathan appeared, it was met with the sound of gunfire. Whether it withdrew following its usual pattern or because of the attack, she did not know.\n\nBut as always, it returned, bashing into the shipshield again. The mind-splitting headache she suddenly had immobilized her for a moment. Drawing on her remaining strength, she surveyed her domain. It was weak and leaking. Small streams of seawater were entering her domain. She couldn’t maintain it for much longer and a glance upwards told her they were still far from the surface.\n\nHer attention was called back by the terrified shouts of her crew. The leviathan was returning for another attack.\n\n***\nr/Inder"
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A note for those that like to think outside of the box: any time travellers you decide to add to the story (or not) must be subjected to the exact same conditions as the protag (they also woke up somewhere in ancient Rome, don't know why they're there).
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[WP] For reasons yet unknown, the character (current times) wakes up the following morning in ancient Rome (year 23 AD). Confused and in a world far, far away from home, the protagonist gradually integrates roman society.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"A Roman legionnaire and his squad were roaming. Roaming around on patrol, through the city. They can across the man that appeared to be disturbing the local citizens.\n\n\"Consistere qui non,\" asked the Roman squad leader.\n\n\"你好，我是鲍勃 (Nǐ hǎo, wǒ shì bào bó),\" the man was clearly not from around here. Other than the language, his looks and clothes gave it away. \"我在哪里？(Wǒ zài nǎlǐ?) 你能听懂我说话吗？(Nǐ néng tīng dǒng wǒ shuōhuà ma?)\"\n\nThe man was brought to the Captain, \"Quis es?\"\n\nThe squad explained first meeting this strange man.\n\nThe Captain said, \"Occidere eum. Et nemo scire.\""
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[WP] A school bully picks on a masochist, and they become very confused as to why they enjoy it
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"*A* was the school yard bully. She/he didn't really care who they bullied because everyday was bullying day for them. They were unbelievably smart in their bullying methods. Physically *A* knew that they weren't very imposing however their strengths lay more in mental and emotional turmoil.\n\n\n\n*A* was exact when getting under a kid's skin. A sharp sense of self doubled up with an almost omnipotent presence made them supremely confident and the most dangerous presence at the school yard.\n\n\n\nFor every black eye that Pavele had given or for all the tears that Hank had extracted, *A* and their brutality was far and away more feared. In fact sometimes, they could even get to the teachers and that was the bullying that *A* enjoyed the most. The twisted pleasure that they got from watching an adult squirm was an absolute treat.\n\n\n\nToday *A* had set their sights on the shy kid who was sat on the edge of bleachers away from the rest of the crowd. Quietly sneaking up on them *A* noticed a phone in their hand. Seems like they were using a cellular phone application called Reddit. *A* would need a bit more and oh how they'd get the kid then! \n\n\n\nThey noticed a nervous twitch. The kid was visibly sweating. It would seem that they were jittery and nervous about something on this application. The application seemed to have many more users. *A* could use the kid's obvious nervous energy as a method of attack but a better idea dawned upon them. In the past one of *A's* biggest ally had been the internet. Angry judgements, trolls and hateful comments were some of most potent weapons in their arsenal.\n\n\n\n*A* watched the kid for some time more as they seemed to be browsing an internet application page called r/writingprompts.*A* knew that they wouldn't get a better time than this. They started in earnest. \n\n\n\n\"Hey kid, look up here, look at me!\" they said, \"what even are you typing there? Look at your fingers, trembling. I don't think it's worth it kid. Those internet people are absolute monsters, they'll tear you apart! Is it worth it? Being found out as a loser. You're being pathetic as usual, let's just stop this charade now.\"\n\n\n\n*A* noticed the kid still typing away in earnest. \n\n\n\nThe attack continued, \"You know what kid, I have got to give it you. You do know quite well that your language skills are pitiful, yet look at you, still typing away. You'd better stop, come on now loser, just stop.\" \n\n\n\nThis kid was smiling, he seemed to revel in such a situation. *A* and their words were definitely having an effect but the kid seemed to be loving these negative vibes. Wasn't the self-doubt that *A* had planted working? Was the kid just crazy, why were they still doing the exact thing that *A* had asked them not to. This kid was not immune to pain and humiliation. This much was obvious! But they definitely seemed to enjoy this pain and humiliation that *A* was so viciously dishing out. \n\n\nWho even stands this much bullying? The others would have caved in by now. What was wrong with this kid? *A* peered over the kid's shoulder into the phone. What the hell? Why was this runt writing about them? The kid kept typing away, they kept calling *A* a bully as they wrote. What the fuck was going on?\n\n\n*A* had never experienced this much crazy in their life, how could this kid enjoy this agony and distress? It was best that they left now, this kid was hopeless, powers greater than *A* could probably deal with this more tactfully.\n\n\n*****************************************************\n\n\nAs *J* finished typing their story, their stress had not reduced in anyway. They were definitely scared about being judged on this public platform but embracing the fears and writing about them was definitely a way to exorcise the demons."
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[WP] Our first contact with aliens are with alien salesmen trying to sell their (highly questionable) products.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Mike and Jim were putting on their space suits. The suits were a necessary precaution, as we still weren't sure what kind of organisms we were dealing with, or what the air content in their ship would be.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe two astronauts didn't talk much. This was what they had been preparing for for twenty years. Now that the time was upon them though, neither felt quite ready, and neither felt they could tell the other.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThey got their helmets on last. They looked each other in the eyes, and Mike asked, \"You ready?\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\nJim nodded. Mike pushed a button in front of him, and the door in front of them opened, granting them access from their shuttle into the alien's ship.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nOn the other side of the door was a table with some luggage on top, and behind the table sat two aliens. They looked exactly like what you think of when you imagine an alien: greenish-gray skin, big eyes, and long, skinny arms and fingers. The only thing odd about them to Mike and Jim, and it actually quite shocked them in fact, was that the two aliens were wearing suits. And not space suits, tailored suits. And they wore shined shoes and ties.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nAs soon as Mike and Jim entered the room the two aliens hopped up out of their chairs. Mike and Jim let the door close behind them as they gawked at the two aliens, who looked like they could've just gotten done after a day making trades on the stock market and were now looking for some fun.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nOne of the aliens said, \"We come in peace,\" in the stereotypical alien voice, and they both held up peace signs. Then they both burst out laughing.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nMike and Jim were still quite speechless. Their eyes were wide in shock. They had made so much progress on language-less communication theory, it was kind of the whole point of the team's project. And now the aliens show up wearing suits and speaking English.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nOnce the aliens had calmed down enough to speak again, the one who had originally talked said, \"We do come in peace, though.\" This time he spoke in a completely normal voice. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nMike spoke up. \"H-h-how do you know English?\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe two aliens were making some expression on their face that Mike could only hope was supposed to be their version of a smile. The one who had talked twice now spoke again. \"We started getting signals from your satellites. Television. Internet. Things of that nature. So we learned all we that could about your culture. And now we're here to trade with you.\" At this point the expression on his face became especially terrifying and he said, \"We've got some stuff we think you'll really like.\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\nMike and Jim looked at each other and looked back at the aliens. They were both leaning on the table in front of Mike and Jim. They both looked like they had a very academic idea of what an easy-going body language looked like.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nJim spoke up this time. \"What do you have? And what do we have that you'd want?\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"I'm glad you asked,\" he said. This time the alien's \"smile\" didn't look quite as creepy as he stood up straight and turned towards the luggage. The other, silent alien mirrored him on the left. They opened the two bags, and inside were a bunch of what looked like hockey pucks. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe aliens each pulled out a puck and set it on the ground between them and the humans. Then they pushed on the tops and stood back. A few seconds later, both pucks spontaneously expanded into beautiful, naked human women. \n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"What the hell!!\" Jim yelled as he jumped back a bit. Mike jumped a bit, and his eyes widened in surprise. The two women reacted to Jim's yell and both jumped as well. \n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"What is this?!\" Jim yelled at the aliens.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"Well, they're robots. Modelled after beautiful human women,\" said the alien. \"Completely anatomically correct, as you can see.\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"Yea, I see that!\" Jim yelled. \"I'd like to know why you'd create sex dolls for us like this!\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"Hey, we should all calm down here, we're scaring the women,\" said Mike, whose eyes still hadn't left the one in front of him.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nJim turned on him. \"We're scaring the women? Mike, you realize these are robots, right? They don't have emotions!\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\nMike finally turned away from the woman in front of him, but she kept her eyes on him. \"But what if these aliens have created A.I. that has emotions? Who are we to deny these women have emotions until we've done some research?\" Mike asked Jim.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nJim looked at him like he was crazy for a moment. Then he looked at the aliens.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"What do you want from Earth?\" he asked them.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe two aliens glanced at each other, and then at the women in front of them, and then the puck-shaped, potential women behind them, and then at Mike and Jim. The speaking one leaned back against the desk and pondered them for a moment. \n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"You're not going to like it,\" he finally said.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"Try us,\" said Jim scathingly.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"You have to spread them far and wide, and get people all over to procreate with the robots.\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\nMike's eyes widened in a definitively not displeased way. Jim just looked confused.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"What?\" Jim asked. \"The price of your product is to use it?\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"That's right,\" said the alien. \"We just need your reproductive material. We need a greater labor force and we've realized humans would be perfect.\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\nJim's eyes widened in horror. \"You think we're going to send children to you to be enslaved? That will never happen!\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"Are you sure?\" the alien asked. \"We will give each of you a robot for your part in this.\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"I'm sure,\" Jim said. \"The value of human life is greater than sex with a robot. It can't be that good.\"\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\\----------------------\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe door of the shuttle opened, and out walked Mike, grinning ear to ear, with two beautiful, naked women by his sides, and two big bags of luggage in his hands. The ground team swarmed him, asking who were these beautiful women, and where was Jim. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nMike's smile turned upside down, and he looked at the ground and said in the most somber way, \"I hate to say it guys, but we lost Jim today. The aliens took him with them.\" He looked off into the distance and shook his head.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"The least I could do,\" he said, \"was save these ladies and their hockey pucks. It's what Jim would've wanted.\"",
"The human race knew there was life somewhere out there in the cosmos. We always assumed they'd be much more advanced than us through technology and specie progression. But we never considered they'd be a bunch if salesmens and pyramid schemers.\n\n\"Human, check this out,\" Glorborg waved me over. \"Check this out. I've been struggling with staying hydrated this summer. And I've found that I'm low on energy and feeling lethargic. I started drinking this energy-\"\n\n\"Not interested!\"\n\nGlorborg stared at me with an open mouth. He couldn't comprehend that a human would actually not want to hear what an alien said.\n\n\"I've traveled 98 million lightyears to get here,\" Glorbor said. \"We come in peace remember. I'm trying to help you.\"\n\n\"Yeah I know you came in peace, and look, it was awesome when you guys came here a year ago. But seriously, you're all a bunch of hack salesmen. It's getting old. I'll admit, you had me in the beginning. When you guys came around selling that *miracle pill* I spent my life savings on it. I assumed that a highly advanced and sophisticated race of aliens would actually have a product worth while. But you didn't then, and you dont now!\"\n\nGlorborg's mouth quivered. \"But... but you gotta try this sample can of Alien Anergy. It's extracted directly from-\"\n\n\"How much is it?\"\n\n\"Well, putting a price on hydration and energy and a better well being-\"\n\n\"Glorborg, the price.\"\n\n\"Well, to sign up for auto-ship there's an initial fee of $5775. Then we sign you up for the one year care package which is $750 a month. This comes with a tshirt too.\"\n\nI snatched the can from his hand and gulped it down. It tasted like sink water and lemons.\n\n\"This is disgusting!\" I spat. \"It tastes like sink water.\"\n\n\"Well, as I was saying earlier, it is extracted directly from the sink water plant back on Onodoblia.\"\n\nI grasped my hair and yanked it a few times. \"I'm done with you! And all of the other aliens!\"\n\n\"You seem tense.\" Glorgborg pulled out a bag of gummy bears. \"When I'm stressed or feeling tense I like to snack on the gummy relievers. We can get a package going for you so you'd recieve a shipment of our Alien Anergy and gummy relievers monthly.\"\n\nI took a deep sigh and pulled out my wallet. \"Alright. Get me the drinks and gummies.\"\n\nGlorborg raised a finger to upsell me. I cut him off before he got a word in. \"And yes, I'll take your vitamin and dietary supplements too.\""
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[WP] You work at the bureau of Imaginary friends. Your new assignment is a bit odd.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"In all my years with BIF, I’d never seen anything like this.\n\n“Yep. Ol’ Stanley here has been my imaginary friend for quite some time now.”\n\nImaginary friends is a child’s game, one that we with the BIF investigate just in case said “friends” are in fact demons or entities that only unblinking little weirdos can see each night as they sit at the edge of their bed and talk to the “man saying mean things.” So, when I got the report that Dale, a forty year old man, had an imaginary friend, I had assumed he was crazy. But sure enough, the imaginary friend was clear as day.\n\n“Stanley,” I began as I cleared my throat. “I understand your Dale’s friend.”\n\nStanley was perpetually annoyed. From the moment I arrived, I could sense that I was not welcome. This made me think that what I was dealing with was likely a demon.\n\n“I’m not his friend, I’m his brother,” Stanley said as he rolled his eyes.\n\nDale let out a breathy chuckle. “What I tell ya? We’ve been together for a long time. As long as I can remember, really. We’re basically brothers. He’s like my imaginary brother.”\n\n“I am your brother, Dale! And I ain’t imaginary.”\n\nDale smiled and shook his head. “Poor guy is in complete denial.”\n\nI watched as Stanley grew increasingly annoyed. Any moment now he was going to snap, and then his true demon form would be revealed. I pulled Dale aside to have a private word. “Listen, Dale. I’m pretty sure what we’re dealing with here is a demon.”\n\nThis surprised Dale. He hesitantly glanced back at Stanley, the “friend” he always trusted. The demon he called a “brother.”\n\n“Are you sure?” He asked quietly.\n\nI had little doubt in my mind that Stanley was a demon. They were usually more obvious, which is what made this one so unique, but he had a sinister aura that was hard to ignore. “I’d bet my career on it.”\n\nDale recognized the seriousness in my voice. It must have hurt him to hear this truth, but he knew something had to be done. “What now then?”\n\n“Play it cool. I’m going to ask him a few more questions and then catch him off guard.”\n\nDale nodded approvingly. We returned to the demon. “Sorry about that Stanley. I just needed to clear a few things up with your buddy, Dale.”\n\n“He’s my brother.”\n\n“Right... your ‘brother.’ Tell me, when did you first meet Dale?”\n\n“Um, the day he was born. I’m his older brother.”\n\nI jotted this down in my notepad. “Interesting. Explain to me what you mean by that.”\n\n“Well, see, our mother gave birth to me and then four years later, she gave birth to Dale. Does that clear things up for you?”\n\nSarcasm. “The demon’s retort” as it’s referred to by us in the BIF. I jotted down another note.\n\n“What are you writing down?” Stanley leaned forward to steal a peek. I stuck the notepad in my back pocket.\n\n“Stanley, I’m going to have to ask you to step back,” I said as I placed my hand on the firearm hanging from my hip. Dale’s eyes darted back and forth between the two of us in anticipation.\n\n“Oh, you gonna shoot me?” Stanley laughed.\n\n“No, something worse.” In a quick, fluid motion, I dropped to one knee and removed the spray bottle of holy water attached to my ankle. With my other hand, I reached between the collar of my shirt and pulled out the large metallic crucifix pendant that was attached to a gold chain that hung from my neck. I followed up with a tactical forward roll toward Stanley with enough momentum to get me back on my feet. Loud enough to shake him to his rotten core, I shouted “the power of Christ compels you!” and drenched Stanley’s face with a copious amount of holy water, sure to put him in excruciating pain. Gripped in my opposite hand was the crucifix. The last thing a demon sees before it meets its violent end, and an essential part of the trifecta of demon extermination. \n\nWith a final squeeze, the last squirt of holy water sprayed onto Stanley the Demon’s face. I dropped the bottle and stood firm behind the crucifix. Dale was huddled several feet away in tense expectation.\n\nStanley stood with eyes closed and jaw clinched. His face dripping with holy water. He reached unhurriedly into his back pocket and removed a rag, which he used to wipe his face. Returning the rag to his pocket, he let out a long exhale, and said, “would you like to see my ID?”\n\nI hesitated for a moment, not quite sure why this demon was unaffected by what just occurred. “Okay...”\n\nHe pulled out his wallet and handed me a driver’s license. *Stanley Harris.*\n\n“What’s your last name, Dale?” I asked.\n\nDale was still a bit shaky from what happened moments earlier. “...H-Ha-Harris.”\n\n“Do you have any siblings?”\n\nHe took a moment to think about this. “Hold on, let me ask my mom.” He pulled out his cellphone, and dialed his mother. “Hello? Mom? Hey, do I have any siblings? I do? Really? Oh. I thought he was imaginary. I don’t know, he didn’t seem real. Okay. Love you too. Bye.” He hung up. “My mom says he’s my actual brother.”\n\nStanley flicked his arms in the air. “Duh!” \n\nI couldn’t believe it. He seemed so demon-like.\n\n“Well,” I sighed. “I guess I owe you an apology, Stanley.” I extended my hand as a show of respect, expecting his in return. Stanley looked at it a moment, and then turned and walked away. \n\n\n**Visit r/TheGoshfather for more stories!**"
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[WP] who ever pulls the sword from the stone is named king, yet no one knows how to deal with the man that pulled the stone out of the ground with the sword still in the stone.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"You are clearly not worthy of the sword.\" Says the wise wizard. His polite posh accent stunning the great hulking beast momentarily. \"But you are strong enough to rip the stone out of the ground. And, quite frankly, that is absolutely terrifying!\" \n\nThe beast looks at the man. Then the sword. \"Big rock not want to let go of shiny food thingy!\" The beast says. Angered by the stone. He bashes the stone onto the ground. And it shatters into bits. But the blade does not change. \n\n\"No.\" The wizard reiterated. \"Not worthy. But...You are still useful.\"\n\nThe brute looks at the wizard and raises the sword. Making him cower. This makes the brute laugh. \"Ha ha! Tiny man with funny voice is scared.\"\n\nThe wizard stands up straight once more. \"Yes well. I am Count Alore The Wise. I am the court wizard to our jarl. And you. Can be my bodyguard.\"\n\n\"Body...Guard?\" The brute struggled.\n\n\"Yes. It means you keep me safe. In return. I shall teach you how to properly use that sword.\" Alore said.\n\nThe brute just stood there. It's grey scale-like skin pulsating with every breath.\n\n\"Do you wish to accept or not? You mindless hulking thing!\" Alore demanded, slightly annoyed at the beast's lack of understanding.\n\n\"Me...Accept!\" The beast stated with a crooked smile. Showing his jagged, stone-like teeth.\n\n\"Wonderful!\" Alore said happily. \"What is your name?\"\n\nThe beast was about to say something. But was cut off. \"Actually.\" Alore interrupted. \"It doesn't matter. I'll just call you Brutus.\" \n\n\"Bru...Tus...\" The beast repeated slowly. \n\n\"Yes. So you are capable of learning. Good.\" Alore said pompously. \"Come along now. We have a kingdom to protect.\"\n\nAlore began walking off. The sound of Brutus' great lumbering footstep drowning out his own. \n\n\nWhen Alore walked in with Brutus, the jarl was taked aback.\n\"I do hope you aren't planning on keeping that...Thing. In the castle, Alore.\" The jarl stated.\n\n\"Of course not, my lordship. He is nothing but a mindless animal.\" Alore said. \"He did however, pull the stone from the ground.\"\n\n\"He did what?\" Asked the jarl.\n\n\"He...Pulled the stone from the ground, my jarl.\" Alore explained. He grabbed the sword. And pulled the stone from the ground.\"\n\n\"How is that even possible?!\" The jarl asked shoked.\n\n\"I'm just as confused as you, my lord. Rest assured. He's too dim to understand how to use it. Your crown is safe.\" Alore reassured.\n\nBrutus just looked around at the lavish palace in awe. As he was looking around at all the fine China, gems, and materials that fill the palace. He laid eyes on the most beutiful woman of the land. Princess Soléne. Her long lushous black hair fell to her shoulders and down the back of her midnight blue silk dress. Her piercing blue eyes locked with his pitch black eyes. And she gave him a look of sadness. \n\n\"Soléne, dear. Don't pay attention to the monster. This is Brutus. He will be my newest lab assistant.\" Alore said.\n\n\"What, pray tell, happened to your last?\" Soléne questioned.\n\n\"Poor boy lost his mind after a spell went haywire and burned half his face. Now the poor boy has two side to him. A caring and timid side. And a terrifying cold harsh side. He is stuck in Dr.Mori Umbra's hospital for the mentally unwell now.\" Alore explained with a fake sadness. \n\n\"I see. Let us hope that this one doesn't end up.with the same fate.\" Soléne said.\n\n\"Yes. Let us.\" Alore said as he began to leave. \"Come now, Brute. I shall escort you to your stables.\"\n\nBrutus let out a saddened sigh. And stomped after him.\n\n\nLater that night. Soléne snuck out to the stables. Her white silk night gown flowing in the cool night air. She had expected to see Brutus in chains. But when she arrived. What she instead saw, shocked her.\n\nAs she walked up to the stables she whispered. \"Brutus. I beleive was your name?\"\n\nShe walked over to the stables. And, where she was expecting to see a big hulking beast. She instead saw a man. His olive skin seemed to gleam in the moon light as he ran his hand through his long disheveled black hair.\n\nHe looked up at her, his dark brown eyes meeting hers. And seeming to peirce her very soul. \"Hello, Princess.\" He said as he stood up and brushed off his black robes. \"Is that what they are calling my other side nowadays?\"",
"No one knows his actual name. When they asked, he told the crowd he wished to be known as \"Kingslayer.\" Anyone with any sense recognized the implication, but many tried their hand regardless. Those curious enough to ask his neighbors what his name was quickly found he lived in a remote house.\n\nHis humble home is surrounded by what would by a lovely field, were it not for the corpses left strewn about. Each one plainly died of having the hunk of stone crush something vital. Not one clean cut on a single body.\n\nHe has a wife, that much is known. She comes to the market every week for food, her husband standing dutifully by her side while she shops. No one has been fool enough to try anything, and that's just how the village likes it. The only time he ever puts the sword down in anybody's sight is when he loads it onto their cart, so he can pull the heavier load on the way back.\n\nThe nobles (what's left of them, many have exhausted their lines trying to wrest the blade), worry constantly. We've been without a king too long, they say. The country is falling to ruin. Life in the village feels surprisingly normal. Nobody travels much here, but the passing merchants are happy to say that time goes on and business is good.\n\nSomeone asked him once why he hasn't taken the throne. He's claimed the blade! He earned it! He merely chuckled happily, then pointed to the mass of rock around the end of his sword.\n\nOn the rare occasions you can get him to speak, he's quite pleasant. You'd think someone who spends so many of his days killing, whose name he chose to tell the world to fear him, would be more abrasive. But catch him when he feels like talking, and he laughs and jokes for hours.\n\nA noble came to town, his servants all shouts and trumpets. Saying we should bow before our new king. First thing, someone rode out to the outskirts of town to check on Kingslayer and the missus. He may be a killer, but outside that he's a pillar of the community. When he heard what was going on, came right to town square. That was unusual. Normally he waits for the challenge to come to him. The challenger normally holds off on saying they're king first, though. Told the puffy shirt with legs to meet him out on his fields, noontime. Said he didn't want anyone having to look at what was going to happen unless they wanted to, and a whole bunch of people who never asked to see a corpse were going about their business around them.\n\nSure enough, later that day the servants were all wandering back towards the capital with heads hung low.\n\nLater that day, he came to the bar in town. A few drinks in, he still won't let go of that damn sword, but he does loosen up a bit. Gets to talking. Someone asks him what he's doing it all for. What he's going to do when he's dead or too old to fight. He laughs.\n\n\"Boy, you say that like there'll be a single noble left when that time comes,\" he says. \"Doubt it. I ain't the Kingslayer because these idiots who think they got what it takes keep losin'. I'm the Kingslayer because I am damn sure I'm gonna outlive all of 'em. Those morons're all wrapped up in getting this piece of metal, they don't realize they could just decide amongst themselves who's in charge and crown 'em tomorrow. But if they're willin' to let it all fall down because they think they need this chunk of metal to prove they matter, I'm more than willin' to let 'em bring this whole house down tryin'. The monarchy'll be dead long before I am.\"",
"The bishop removed his pointy hat and scratched the side of his head.\n\n\"Prime minister?\" he asked the collected nobles.\n\nA tide of shrugging shoulders ran from one end of the hall to the other.\n\n\"I mean, I guess\" answered the speaker while looking just as confused as the rest of them.\n\nThe bishop addressed the barbarian holding the Sword of Kings as well as the still attached Stone of Divine Decision aloft.\n\n\"Alright then you can lower that now, it's decided. You'll be our new prime minister and we'll switch over to like ... a constitutional republic.\" The bishop looked at the speaker again who had now been surrounded by his fellow nobles. A short but agitated discussion took place before the speaker became visible again.\n\n\"Alright, me and the boys had a quick chat. We kinda liked the whole class divide, can we maybe chose something that still has that in it?\"\n\n\"Hm, what, like a Theocracy or something? Keep the whole divine right stuff in there as well?\"\n\nThe bishop’s idea was quickly followed by a wave of general agreement from the nobles.\n\n \n \n\nTurning back to the barbarian he said: \"Ok, sorry about the delay, we got it now. You are the new avatar of god and we are your priests. We'll run the place for you and don't worry, we'll make sure there's special godly exceptions regarding drink, food, whenches ...\" he mentally struggled for a moment, what was the word for a male whench exactly?\n\nReady to call them whenchers he looked up at the barbarian who was now standing there in a rather unexpected pose.\n\nWith shoulders and neck slumped forward, shyly looking at the ground and with his meaty index fingers prodding at each other he said: \"Gord like prime mister, Gord can still have?\"\n\nSlightly taken aback the bishop thought for a moment and answered: \"Well, come on now, that doesn't sound\"\n\nA voice from the crowd of newly appointed priests interrupted him.\n\n“Ah come on what’s the problem, just pronounce it weirdly.”\n\nWith a smile on his face the bishop thought, I love when people actively get involved in politics and continued:\n\n“Sure thing, Gord was it? I hereby declare … “\n\nThis time Gord interrupted him.\n\n“Me think people give gold to Gord. Gold make Gord happy, me think happy Gord good for all.”\n\nThe bishop as well as the speaker looked sceptically at Gord. Collecting all the valuables in the hands of one person had killed their last el presidente. Shame too, the bishop thought as he searched his robes for a dagger. He had begun to like Gord.\n\n“You help count gold, Gord not do numbers well?”\n\nThey fell to their knees and bowed deeply. The bishop wiped the tears from his eyes as he nodded, the speaker openly wept.\n\n“A god has come amongst us, all hail prime mister Gord!”",
"\"Set it down, John. It don't count none.\"\n\n\"But I lifted the sword. I'm the king.\"\n\n\"You're not wrong on lifting the sword but the law's clear on this, right. So, I know the tale tells of one who'll lift the sword as he lifts the curse and becomes king of this God-forsaken land, but, seeing as this sword and stone were moved here from -- come to think of it, I can't recall where. No matter, whoever moved it here would be king under this standard.\"\n\n\"So who's the king then?\"\n\n\"Well... no one is. That's kind of the point of this whole sword in the stone thing. The law says that the next person to DISLODGE the sword from the stone is the next sovereign. It's not the sword, but that pesky boulder.\"\n\n\"No problem. I got this. I'll just bang it against the stone fence and break it off.\"\n\nJohn swung high and fast and the ornate sword and carefully cut stone crashed against the stone wall utterly demolished the wall. The sword and stone, however, were completely unscathed.\n\n\"Well now ya've done it...\" Both turned to see the militiaman. \"I'll be takin' that sword and stone off yea now. Seems ta be a rather effective siege weapon.\"\n\n\"It's mine.\" said John defiantly. \"You can't have it.\"\n\n\"Give the man the sword. Unless you're planning on demolishing some more stonework, it'll probably not be of any use to you.\"\n\nThe militiaman reached out and grabbed the sword by the hilt. As soon as he did, the stone simply slid off the end of the sword and onto the ground, breaking in two.\n\n\"You realize you've just become the king of England, right? What's your name?\"\n\n\"Arthur Pendragon. What's this nonsense about being the king, now?\"",
"“All hail King Olvid, I suppose.” I scratched my head, confusion outweighing disappointment.\n\nA ragged groan went up from the line behind me as the barbarian hefted the sword with ease, ignoring the massive boulder that hung off the end of it. I glanced at his mace where it lay discarded on the dirt. The stone and sword were probably lighter.\n\nHe was an ugly fellow, but I pushed that down. Even thinking treason could be dangerous in this country. Plus, he looked like he lit his pipe by burning a village down. The challenge had clearly stated “whoever can lift the sword”\n\nThe line around me began to jeer at the outsider, disappointment turning to anger. All of them had been called here by the challenge. It was hard to better your station in this society, I had been trying to promote to senior garbage man for years with no luck. This contest was an opportunity to change that, however slim the chances were. Now they were none.\n\nOr were they.\n\nOlvid had clearly planned to do this all along, but had failed to consider the next step. Rage flushed his cheeks as polite society refused to accept such an uncivilized man as their king.\n\nPerfect.\n\nI stepped out of line, sweeping into a low bow. “The king is chosen, let us not discuss treason”\n\nThe crowd froze at that magic word. The last king had handed down hangings like seed to chickens. Judging on appearances, this one was little better. The outcry faded to grumbling.\n\nOlvid turned to me, looking down at my slight frame, obviously unimpressed. We would have to work on that.\n\n“Command me, my king”\n\nBefore he could say a word, a robed man shouldered his way through the crowd, shoving people aside with disregard for the old and infirm. “Now wait just a minute-”\n\nThat was as far as he got. I knew his type, I had taken out garbage for hundreds of wizards over the years. They were a snotty, unappreciating lot that wouldn’t bother to put their trash in the bucket, assuming I would just pick it up off the floor. Not anymore.\n\n“Assassin!” I yelled, pointing at the man, “Defend your king and be rewarded”\n\nAs one, the crowd surged forward, punching and kicking the wizard from all sides. So surprised was he that he didn’t even get off a spell, staff knocked to the ground body following shortly after. It was over in thirty seconds.\n\n“Give your names to the guards,” I said with a wave to the crowd, moving to stand beside Olvid. They would be happy now, well paid. They would look at the coin as the mark of a generous ruler and the murder as civic duty.\n\nOlvid looked at me with new eyes, grinning his broken teeth. “I see your value now”\n\nI grinned in return. That was the best compliment I had ever received. Working for this guy might be alright.\n\nI stuck out a hand. “Nice to meet you, King Olvid”\n\n“You as well.” He scratched his head, “ What do I call you?”\n\n“Call me Arthur,” I said with a wink, “Arthur Pendragon. Secretary to the king”\n\n&#x200B;\n\n/r/PalaceOfficial"
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[WP] The greatest hero and the greatest villain are best friends. Of course, neither is aware that the other is their nemesis.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I stare at the towel in silent, seething anger. I can feel my blood pressure rise as I take in the grim scene before me.\n\n'Just. Just..\n\n...gnnnnghhhhhghhhhhh....'\n\nA slow hissing whisper of rage and frustration floats quietly from my lips. Not again. Not today.\n\n'....Why?'\n\nI stare at it. I swear it stares back, each tiny fiber of it an unblinking eye of abject towely spite.\n\n'You. Will. Not. Win.....You fuzzy little bastard.'\n\nI try to decide how to handle this. I was not prepared. I came in here before my coffee, before I had a chance to properly take stock of the world and it's injustices. I was not ready.\n\nI have plans. I cannot afford to have an existential crisis because of a towel. Not today. \n\nNot a towel. A nemesis.\n\n'Nemesis...'\n\nMy voice trails off and I can feel my attention drift away from the plush, incorrectly placed, and infuriatingly unfolded invader. To...HER.\n\n'You. I'll...'\n\nFuck, I don't know what's happening. Is this it? Am I going to blow everything early because of... This? This FUCKING TOWEL SWINE.\n\n'Wait... I... It's not time.... Stop'\n\nI fall to the floor clutching my head. My heart feels like it will explode. I am close. I need to stop. I can't let it happen. Not yet. Not because of. Of a....no. Not yet.\n\n'Holy shit.'\n\nThe words slip from my mouth onto the bathroom floor as I slowly feel my self control return. I can feel the implants retracting. The readouts are pure data, fired straight to my optic nerve, and show my vitals stabilising.\n\nThe towel continues to stare at me. I will not let it win.\n\nIt is, of course, just a pawn in this war. This continued act of passive aggression from my wife. My wife, who despite all her wonderful and myriad qualities, despite her almost ethereal presence, despite years of me putting it back IN THE RIGHT FUCKING PLACE, cannot operate and then return a towel correctly to it's home.\n\nI will remain calm. For now. Soon. Soon my plan takes shape. Today is the day.\n\n'Fuck you, you fluffy little shit.'\n\nShe leaves for her boring office job in half an hour, doing who knows what in some grey cubicle. She's wonderful. Almost wonderful enough.\n\n'Last time, fucker.'\n\nI pick up the towel and slowly refold it. I savour each movement. I make sure the label is facing inwards, like it should be. \n\nI place it in its home, on the shelf. \n\n'I win'\n\nI know I'm lying. The towel has won. The fucking towel has won. I feel my blood start to boil and my homebrew servos start to fire in anticipation. No. Not yet. I look at the towel and whisper\n\n'soon'\n\nIn half an hour my wonderful wife who almost saved you all will leave to her boring job. And this time no-one will stop me. This time SHE will not be there. I've made sure. I'm very careful.\n\nIn half an hour my wife will go to work for the last time, and THIS TIME\n\nI let the sentence fall gently from my mouth and hang in the air like a promise.\n\n'I will destroy the world.'"
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[WP] Three Years after the Zombie Apocalypse, life has mostly returned to normal - though now the undead are considered a daily nuisance as humanity adapts.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"There is one outside my window. I killed another in the morning, it kept going against my door and I couldn't reach for the newspaper on my doorstep so I shot it. \n\nIf someone created a flytrap in human size, I'd leave outside and hear the buzz of them being killed like moths going into the light. I wonder if this sound morbid. Maybe before the plague people would squirm in the thought of killing what it was once a person. \n\nSometimes I forget that it ever happened then one of those appears on my way to work. You can find them in a pack blocking the road making me late ou trying to go through a wall like a blind pet. They're very stupid and some even find them funny but not me. \n\nI hate them. My hate grows as I clean infected shit in my driveway. We are all immune, vaccinated, whatever but the smell left behind makes want to puke. Just the thought grosses me out. Now I need to take a shower.",
"After the first week, nobody bothered with pistols anymore. It turns out that getting a cranial double-tap under stress, or just under the influence, is a real pain in the neck; specifically, the pain of getting a chunk bitten out of it. Teachers and transit workers carry rifles, because range equals time. Continuing Firearm Education (CFE) is a part of every custodial job, and life moves on.\n\nAfter the post-mortem on the disastrous Battle of Birmingham, and the CDC's Report on Transmission Vectors, nobody uses shotguns either. As it turns out, getting stuck with a flying bone splinter is just a slower way of being bitten, especially for old folks and kids.\n\nThree years on, the horde isn't as fast or as thick as it used to be, and life is back to a new kind of normal. Everybody goes out armed, everyone wears a mask, no one goes out alone if they can help it. The masks were a fad initially, but no one wants to be remembered for dying by drool inhalation, so they caught on, from the sleek velvets of the hoi polloi down to the half-plastic \"Sponsored by FeBreeze\" models you see in the run down part of downtown.\n\nTechnically, I'm retired, but I still go to town most days, just to keep active and keep the memories at bay. I did a full tour in the pink-and-greens, and in those 2 months we saw 3 operations, Sam Houston, MLK Memorial Middle, and Immaculate Heart of Mary. I got a medal for each one, with little stars on them, in case I forgot how many kids' blank faces I'd smashed in as we cleared the buildings.\n\nThis morning was grey, one of the first real spring days this year. The rot Popsicles in Canada would be getting frisky again soon and that would mean more caution all around. For now, though, the gaggle of office ladies hurrying around the corner onto my street was the most immediate concern. Short skirts and sneakers, not a high heel or a poofy shirt in sight, good. The too-shiny kukris at their belts, though, looked a shade too decorative, which meant they'd probably be no real help. \n\nI reached back over my shoulder for Clementine, a 42\" oak rod with a perfectly smooth sphere of stainless steel on the end, choking up on it a little to account for the width of the sidewalk as the ladies streamed by. Four ticks later, it came, a misshapen, gaunt thing with a greasy shirt and huge sagging overalls that suggested their owner had been a little fluffy in life. It didn't howl for its pack, which probably meant it was a lone wanderer, instead it just swung around like a drunken semi and lurched hungrily down the sidewalk. No need to get in close. Step-up-aim-down-crunch-draw-fire. The thing went down hard as its brainpan caved in, and the road-flare caught just as it should, turning the erstwhile monster into a nice, clean scorch mark. I checked to make sure Clementine remained fluid-free before holstering it and the comically over-sized flare-pistol, then headed on to the first real challenge of the day, picking breakfast."
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[WP]: Time Travel Tourism is big. But “original” history is actually quite boring so the TTT Bureau tampers with time. You are up and coming scene writer pitching a big idea for this season’s arc.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Alright, so, picture this. Washington crossing the Delaware.\"\n\nAround the room execs leaned forward. I had them. Good.\n\n\"So, we've visited, and the original is a dreary affair. Its the middle of the night, freezing cold, no American flag. You all know the painting. Its nothing like that. So, our script. Off-shoot universe eighty one nine forty three C. We inform Washington of our spies who drug the Hessians, so they are passed out midday. We alter the weather, send an unseasonable warm front through, so its cold, but not freezing. We give the troops supplies a week or so out, so they are are well fed and ready to go. We give Washington a speech in return for these gifts and ask him to give it while crossing, while slipping in a select few tourists as soldiers on the boat.\"\n\nAround the room there were murmurs, nods, papers shuffling.\n\n\"The flag?\"\n\n\"We thought about it, and we'd like to give it a go without the flag in trials. We can add one if it feels needed, but Washington may question where we got it.\"\n\nMore nods.\n\n\"We wanted something patriotic, I was thinking Lincoln. Any work on his voice?\"\n\nI deflated a little. Lincoln, contrary to popular myth, had a somewhat high pitched voice. It was his charisma, his gravitas, and his way with words that made him a famed public speaker, that and being president during the civil war. Modern viewers expected more.\n\n\"No. We've considered a number of options, but short of replacing him we just can't manage it yet. The lab is still working on it though. As soon as they have it, we'll start drumming up a script. We already have a universe set up with a larger box at Ford's theater so they can be there the day of, even save him. We have the Gettysburg Address set up so that when we have his voice right he can give it to a crowd of thousands who will go while, mostly actors, a few real soldiers.\"\n\n\"I see. Well, I like this Washington thing, I'll sign off on it, but you need to work on Lincoln.\"\n\nHe waved a hand to dismiss me. I turned to leave, but he called out, stopping me in my tracks.\n\n\"Oh, and Hamilton. You need to get him rapping.\"\n\nI sighed as I left. Execs never understood how difficult these things were.\n\n******\n\nMore stories at /r/JohnGarrigan"
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I would prefer wholesome stuff, but I mean this prompt probably has to be dark to some level
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[WP]The villian is shocked and horrified at themselves when they make the usually brave, stoic hero breakdown and start crying
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Nightleaf knew he was in trouble. He had fallen into Hissing Shadow's trap and now he would pay the price. *Maybe you wouldn't have fallen into the trap if you weren't so distracted* he mentally berated himself *I've got to do better*. The only warning of an attack was a small rustle of fabric from behind him as a figure clad in a nearly black, voluminous cloak pounced. \n\nNightleaf rolled into the bush while activating his leaf litter camouflage just narrowly avoided Hissing Shadow's steel daggers the swung toward where he was just milliseconds ago. \"Come out little one! You will fail! You always fail! You are no match for me!\" The darker figure taunted, \"Why do you even try? You're useless!\" Hissing Shadows crouched in anticipation, expecting some retaliatory strike, but none came. \n\nNightleaf gave a faint sniffle, unable to hold in his tears. He could feel Shadow approach him. \"Oh shit, are you crying?! Uhh, fuck!\" \n\nNightleaf couldn't help it; he started laughing. He laughed long past the point considered normal as his crys slowly morphed into sobs. Hissing Shadows seemed to be fighting himself as he hesitantly asked, \"D-do you uh, do you hug a hug?\"\n\nNightleaf was silent for a moment before nearly whispering \"Yes please.\" \n\n{○|●}{○|●}\n\nNightleaf had cried himself to sleep in Hissing Shadow's arms, and woke to find himself curled into the larger man's side. The man was surprisingly warm and comfy, and Nightleaf nuzzled in closer. \n\n*This is quite an odd predicament for my team to find me in* Nightleaf sleepily mused, *at least I'm cozy.* he incoherently thought as he tangled their legs together and stretched out further over Hissing Shadow's chest, with a few small grumbles. \n\n{○|●}{○|●}\n\nThe Strong Seven were in fact very amused by the whole situation and gave Hissing Shadows Nightleaf's personal phone number. Unfortunately for Hissing, Nightleaf was a late sleeper and grumbled everytime he so much as shifted.",
"Vayne looked around at the destruction permeating her apartment. The couch was flipped onto its side, the books torn and tattered. Her silverware stabbed into the walls, and the paint had an eerie color to it.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nNone of that held her attention for longer than a moment. She was used to Brendan, her self proclaimed 'arch nemesis', trashing her apartment. They had been friends, but had gone separate ways trying to protect people.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n*I just wish he'd stop trashing my place...* she thought to herself glumly.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nIt was a picture, wrapped in a delicate wooden frame that should have been hanging off the wall near the door, that got her attention. The picture was half burnt, and the frame he had made her out of the scraps of wood he could find was snapped. She'd admitted many times that it may have been somewhat pointless, showing the two of them winning some dumb award. But even so, Brendan's innocent goofiness showed itself as he pelted her with science jokes.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n*I can't believe he'd...*\n\n&#x200B;\n\nAs her heart raced in her chest, she tasted something salty at her lips. Taking off one mitten, she put her hand to her face to find tears.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nIt was only as she felt the tears that she heard a clattering around her. She had created a current of wind that trashed her apartment further, but hadn't touched her beloved photo.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nHer shirt billowed less and less as she took control of her little ability.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nShe turned to her door, ready to hunt him down and give him a piece of her mind, when Brendan came out of her closet. The wind picked up again, a fire lighting in her eyes.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nAt least until she saw him crying.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n\"I... I didn't see that while I was tearing your place up... I'd assumed you threw that away a while ago, or kept it to remind yourself of something bad about me...\" Brendan stammered, sobbing quietly as snow fell onto Vayne's second story balcony.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nHer wind died down and she took a step towards him. Brendan flinched, expecting retribution, until she wrapped her arms around him and cried. They comforted each other, joking around and poking fun at the other for the rest of the night.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nFrom then on, they agreed that they would meet up every month, no matter the circumstances, to catch up and joke around. They agreed that despite their differences, they wanted the same things when it came down to it. One would try to convince the other to try things differently, but would be reprimanded by the other as their little truce kept them together.",
"\"So. The great and powerful Rebel. Entrapped in my-\" Valgore. The immortal king stops his speech to the sound of crying. \"A-Are you okay?\"\n\nRebel's image flickers. And she becomes shorter. Younger. \"No!\" She exclaims. \"I never wanted this! I told them I wasn't ready! I told them I was too young! But they just gave me this stupid rune! And made me come fight you!\" She rolled up her sleeve to show a rune on her forearm. Given by the gods.\n\nThis angered Valgore. He had always despised the gods for wasting his time and toying with mortals. In fact. He became immortal. Purely out of spite. To anger them. But now. They were sending children. Children! To fight him?! And disguising them as adults! He may be heartless. But he has standards. \n\nHe freed the poor girl. And tisked at the thought that the gods. The beings that his kind put so much faith into. Could do this. To children! \n\n\"How old are you?\" He asked the girl. Who was still in tears. \n\nShe sniffed and wiped her eyes. \"I-I'm 12.\"\n\n\"TWELVE?!\" He cried. \"Where are your parents?!\"\n\n\"They-They're not with us anymore.\" The girl whimpered. \"I-I thought you knew this. Didn't you kill them?\"\n\nValgore looked at her. \"No! Why would I?! I don't hate my own kind! Only the gods! And for good reason!\"\n\nRebel looked at him. \"But. But Zeus told me-\"\n\n\"In all fairness, dear. Zeus is probably going to try to take your virginity when you get older.\" Lightning cracked across the sky. \"Yeah! I'm the bad guy here! You can't keep it in your pants! And now you're sending children to fight your battles! I've read the Percy Jackson books too! Believe it or not! Kids aren't as mentally prepared for life threatening adventures as they are in story books! You absolute-GAH! You're lucky there's a kid here! Or I'd be giving you hades! Life isn't a fairytale! Children! Shouldn't do your bidding! Stop using mortals to fight your battles! You obsolete! Lazy! Horrible! Peice of-\" He was struck by lightning. Making Rebel whimper. \nZeus appeared in front of them. \"YOU DARE-\"\n\n\"No! You don't get to say that to me, Zeus! How about this! How dare you! How do you have the Gall! No! The audacity! To do that?! This is a child! Zeus! A child! She doesn't even know how to fully control her powers yet!\" Valgore was fuming. \"You killed her family! And LIED TO HER! And said I did it! So you could make her hate me!? What in the name of whatever God is stronger than you! Made you think that was an okay thing to do?!\"\n\n\"Rebel isn't even my real name.\" The girl said. Still in tears. \"It's Jane!\" \n\n\"That's it.\" Valgore pulled a stone sword from the wall. And several runes began to glow on the blade and float around him. \"First my wife and daughter! Now this?! I'm tired of your shit, Zeus!\"\n\nZeus tried to run. But Valgore was too quick. He had cut off his head before Zeus could even blink. Making sure to keep previously Rebel. Now Jane. From seeing. Then he impaled the blade into Zeus' heart. And looked up to adress the Gods. \"You see this?! If any of you! ANY OF YOU! Try anything like that again! I will not hesitate! I do hope I've made myself clear.\" He turned to look at Jane. \"I'm sorry. It was never ment to be like this. I can't bring back your family. But. I can give you a new one.\"\n\n\"Are you saying-\"\n\nValgore smiled. For the first time in a hundred Melania. He smiled. \"Yes. If you'd like. I can even teach you how to use your powers. You have a lot of potential.\"\n\nJane smiled. And wiped tears from her eyes. \"Okay.\"\n\n\"Now that that's settled.\" Valgore said, more cheerful than he's been in ages. \"You wanna go get ice cream? I've heard it makes everything better.\"\n\n\"My dad used to take me for ice cream whenever I did something great. Like got all A's. Or learned a new power.\" \n\n\"Well.\" Valgore said. \"Why stop that tradition now? You fought me and almost won. Besides. Even if you didn't. I've always wanted to try ice cream.\"\n\nJane chuckled a little. \"Okay.\" She said as they walked out of the old castle. \"But. We need a more present day name for you. How about...Venson. or Vernon.\"\n\n\"I like Vernon.\" Valgore said with a smile.\n\n\"Next. We need to get you new clothes. And probably a better house.\"\n\n\"What's wrong with my current clothes and home?!\" \n\n\"It's all so several hundred Malinia ago.\"\n\nThe both laughed at that as they walked into town to buy ice cream."
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[WP] As you're on the way home everyone on the train stops moving. As you look around in confusion, they all slowly turn to look at you, eyes glowing a deep purple. In unison, they speak, "Ah, finally. We've been looking for you for a while now."
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"“Well, that was fun.”\n\n“’Fun’?”\n\nI shrugged. “What would you call it?”\n\nHope grimaced. “Not fun, at least.”\n\n“I see why Holly calls you ‘Hopeless.”\n\nShe made a non-committed grunt as the train rolled in. The two of us had been requested to eliminate a baker’s dozen of ornery bastards, somewhere over the border into the next country. After a quick and dirty fight, we opted to grab the last train home.\n\nWe boarded without incident, finding seats to brave the long journey back home in. Neither of us spoke as the train began to shudder and chug into the dark night.\n\nA few people were on board. A mother and her child, a group of teens that I wanted to strangle, some old guy reading his paper, and his wife trying to make conversation with him. One of the teens yelled out an obscenity, getting a look from the old man and a verbal lashing from the wife.\n\n“Kids never had any respect, did they?” I mused.\n\n“I can’t get used to it.” Hope said, placing a large, metal briefcase down beside her. “I’m still thinking its ‘respect or death’.”\n\n“Yeah, well, death doesn’t do as much as people think, as we both know.”\n\nShe shook her head. “I noticed. How do you do it?”\n\nI raised an eyebrow. “Do what?”\n\n“Cope. Knowing that you’re dead, knowing that *this* is the afterlife. That there isn’t going to be an end?”\n\n“With an unhealthy amount of sarcasm in my case.” I said. “At this point, it’s just rolling with the punches.”\n\n“You don’t care at all, do you?”\n\n“Not in the ways I should, I don’t think.” I said. The child took his mother’s phone – or, hell, *his* phone knowing this day and age – and started fiddling with it.\n\n“Did you ever have that problem with Alice?”\n\n“With the kid or those monsters?” I said, motioning to the group.\n\n“Either.” Hope said.\n\n“Eh, she was a whingebag. Very needy kiddie, couldn’t go out for two seconds before she started crying when she was two. Slowly grew out of it when she got older. Still, a little closed off to new experiences.”\n\n“She’ll learn.” Hope said. “How’s she doing at school?”\n\n“You’re eager.” I said, smirking.\n\n“I’m just wondering. Holly’s spoke about her a few times.”\n\nI shrugged. “I’m just saying. She seems to be doing well, got in trouble a few times, but not through any direct fault of her own. Last time, some lad decided to grab the back of her bra and snap it back.” I made the motion of grabbing something with two fingers, before pretending to release the object.\n\n“Ugh, seriously?”\n\n“Yep.” I grinned. “She bloodied his nose.”\n\n“What did the teacher say?”\n\n“That they didn’t condone violence in the school. I asked them if they preferred sexual harassment instead.”\n\nShe snorted. A rare moment of amusement bloomed across her face. “To be a fly on *that* wall…”\n\n“Yves’ jaw dropped when I told her.” I chuckled at the memory. “Didn’t believe I said it! Look on her face was an absolute-”\n\n“Lazarus.”\n\n“Mm? …Huh?”\n\nWe could hear it even as we felt it; the *clunk-clunk, clunk-clunk* of the train’s wheels slowing as the momentum of the carriage died. Given our next stop was supposed to be ten minutes away, it was apparent something had gone wrong.\n\n“That’s inconvenient.” I noted, looking at the ceiling.\n\n“…Are you dense?”\n\nI turned to Hope, then to where her gaze was pointed. The youths were standing stock-still, with nothing to indicate they were still alive. My vision greyed out, and a second later I saw their souls, bright with the vigour of youth. Near them were the old couple, souls not as bright, but defined, hardened by experience. Both were looking straight ahead, eyes blank.\n\n“Well?”\n\nI turned to Hope. Her soul was… a bit of a mess. Lumpy, would be a good, if inaccurate, way to describe it. Lumpy with the scars of her previous deaths, and of the bits of souls of powerful beings she was charged with hunting down.\n\n“Still human. Including those two.” The kid’s phone was on the floor.\n\nThen his head turned to look at me in the eye.\n\nI twitched, shifting my vision back to normal. His eyes were now a deep purple, the slight hint of a glow coming from them. His mother, too, was staring at me, unblinking even as she opened her mouth.\n\n“Finally. We’ve been looking for you a while now.”\n\nIt came from a dozen throats, all around the carriage.\n\n“Well, shit.”\n\nHope hissed under her breath, “Lazarus, what the hell is *this*?”\n\nI looked back at the mob of teens, seeing that they were looking right at me. As I shifted vision, I said “not sure, but I have a guess.” Their souls were no different.\n\n“And that would be?”\n\n“Something akin to a god.”\n\nThey spoke again. “Reaper. Undying One. Color.”\n\n“Shit.” I did not need this. I was hoping to leave that corporation behind, but…\n\n“*Colour*?” Hope said, a little too loudly for my tastes.\n\n“Supposed to be, but I went to L Corp.” I said. “Died there along with Holly. Binah did her in, and I got killed thanks to a mob-rush of some of the little guys.” I turned to one of the faces. Might as well be the old man. “I’m supposing you’re one of the Ordeals we had to go through?”\n\n“We need you.” Was the answer, about as helpful as it sounded.\n\n“What for?” Hope asked. They just ignored her.\n\n“The Mountain. It comes, seeking the blood of the innocent. The Smiling Bodies will grow if left unchecked. Only you can destroy it.”\n\n“Why not take it as my own?” I asked. “Better put it to use than let it fade to nothing.”\n\n“You seek more power?”\n\n“I seek more options.”\n\nIt considered this for a moment. Or so I thought. The expressions didn’t change.\n\n“We will be back.”\n\nAnd with that, the eyes reverted. Several thuds marked where the bodies of released teens hit the floor, and a gasp escaped from the old couple.\n\n“Lazarus?”\n\n“Later.”\n\n“How about *now*?”\n\n“My memory didn’t completely survive the last two deaths. Best I can say is that it’s not wrong. Not completely. The Mountain of Smiling Bodies will wipe out our continent just by existing. And I’m the best bet for dealing with it.”\n\n“So now what?”\n\n“I’m going to call your sister’s Nurses. They’ll pass the message along. And then we wait.”\n\n“That’s it?” She sounded annoyed.\n\n“Sadly.”\n\nI took out my phone while she huffed, and was forced to interact with the others on the train.\n\nHolly was not going to like this one bit.\n\n\\~\\~\\~\n\nRead more at r/VorpalLibrary",
"George leapt up from his seat and dashed towards the front of the car. The train was still moving but he knew if he could get out into the space between cars he would be able to jump to the ground with relatively minor injuries. Two possessed passengers slowly stood up to block his way. He turned around to look at the rear of the car only to see two more passengers there, and two more by the emergency exit.\n\nThe passengers opened their mouths and dark purple smoke poured out, coalescing in the middle of the car in a vague semblance of his former employer.\n\n\"What do you want from me?\" George demanded.\n\n\"Tisk, tisk, is that any way to greet an old colleague? Well, we only have a few minutes until the next stop and I would so like to have all these lovely folks sitting back down by then so I'll get to it . . .\"\n\n\"I told you, I'm out. No more traveling, no more killing, no more. I'm done.\"\n\n\"Yes, you did tell us that. And we told you that you still had a life debt to pay off. You belong to us until we tell you we're through. And that was when you were just talking about QUITTING, for gods sake. If that was our attitude on quitting, how did you think we were going to react when you stole the Collective's property and used it to run off to some ass-end backwater plane that no one cares about? Did you think we would just let that slide?\"\n\nGeorge allowed a hint of a smirk to cross his face. \"It did take you a while to track me down. Was it worth the resources? Just for me?\"\n\nThe purple smokey figure sighed deeply. \"But it's not just about you. You were good, and if it was just a matter of reacquiring your services to us, it likely would not have been worth the effort.\" The figure began to sound serious for the first time in the conversation. \"But we also had to worry about a transporter gone missing, we had to worry about what you might try to do to us if you ever built up the nerve to come back, and most of all we had to worry about what our other . . . contractors might do if they knew you had gotten off so easily. This was your problem from the start: it's not just about you. It's about the Collective.\"\n\nThe wheels made a distant screeching sound and the train began to slow slightly.\n\nThe smokey figure sighed again. \"Well would you look at that, we're out of time. We're not done with you, but our further conversation will have to wait until we have more time and more privacy. The purpose of my visit today was mainly to tell you that we know where you are, we know how to find you, and we have no intention of forgiving or forgetting.\" The other passengers began to slowly move back to their seats and the smokey figure dispersed, but before the traces of violet faded from their eyes, they all said in unison, \"We'll be in touch.\""
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[WP] Three legendary heroes fought against Hydra, the first one, shot arrows against it, the second one, used a very ancient and powerful magic to paralyse the monster and then the third one cut off his head. As Hydra grew two more heads, one of the heroes said, "this could be extremely profitable"
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Your heroes are only heroes to you. \n\n\nTo us they are monsters. Surprised? Of course you are. Monsters is a title of your own invention, given to me and my kind, and I am hard pressed to deny it is accurate. According the definitions you have assigned it, my kind are monsters, and so are those you now call saviors. \n\nYou do not believe me. Then let me ask a question. How many hydras do you believe there are in the world. \n\nHah! You are so naive. I could grow fat on your ignorance alone. No, there is only one. Perhaps there was only ever one. \n\n“But the swarm at Pallisadae. The culling at Narvick.” \n\nFarces, all of them. A grand play with a full cast and you the unwitting audience. A swarm of illusions, cast by the wizard. I understand your denial. \n\nHow could you doubt it when they came back with a cart full of heads? Did it not occur to you to search for the rest of the bodies? Perhaps it did, and they claimed they had dissolved into dust. Perhaps you did not care enough to ask. \n\n“But the victims” I hear you cry. \n\nExamine the bodies, the ones you did not burn on Their advice. Are not the claw marks familiar? Like those of a bear, a form the druid seems to prefer. \n\nDo you know what they did to the “victims” whose bodies they “could not recover”? The same thing they do to the bodies of mine kin, when there is nothing left to salvage. They feed them to him. \n\nI can see it in your eyes, the dawning horror. Imagine how he must feel. Chained in the dark, fed the remnants of creatures he called friends, asking himself “why?” every time the door opens and the blade descends on yet another neck. The flash of pain, nearly drowning out the discussions of coins and profit, things he never cared about when he wandered free. Perhaps he feels nothing. Perhaps there is some mercy in this world, and he has long since gone mad. \n\nI do not know. I do not care. One way or another he, and any others I can find, will be free. \n\nThat is why I need you. Your skin, your scent, your face. I will take your place and free them. For your sacrifice I will grant you a boon. I will take your memories and I will ensure your family is not harmed. \n\nIt is the least I can do. Your death will protect them. Should they uncover the truth I pray, though I doubt there are any gods listening, that they will do what I, and your vaunted “heroes” cannot. \n\nLive and let live.",
"\"Aim higher, Alexander! You can't be a legendary hero with such an aim!\" Leandra yelled as she dodged the hydra's third head. Her sword was the same length as her height, and she wielded it with skill. Her attacks to the beast had the same precision and majesty as threading a needle or flying a dragon. She kept the monster preoccupied as Sean muttered another word of a three-page long magic. \n\n\"Lay off, Leandra.\" Alex yelled. \"'Tis a hydra, for Lord's sake, not an octopus!\" Alexander nocked another of his arrows, all the while wary of a second tail attack from the ferocious beast. He looked toward Sean and- rather than see- he heard the boy muttering his spell. The boy's cloak was almost twice the size of a regular wizard robe and covered Sean from the bottom of his sole to the tips of his fingers. Unfortunately, all Alex could do is grit his teeth and hope that Sean was on page three of his spell. \n\nAll three heads of the hydra screeched, slobber dribbling down its mouth. The beast was massive and easily the size of three tall towers. It could crumble stone and crush metal with nary a wink, and it demonstrated its power like a toddler on a sugar high. The three heads separately were like snakes, while the body seemed reminiscent of a frog. All in all, it was a terrible existence that the three legendary heroes had the ill luck of encountering. \n\nThe second head had the power to freeze enemies, and it took advantage of Sean's immobile form to shoot icicles the size of three humans at him. \"Hot pockets!\" Leandra cursed. \"Always the quiet ones!\" She was fighting against the first hydra head, which fought with sonic booms and sound waves. Against her better judgement, she wriggled her way out of the first hydra's entanglement before throwing her sword at the icicle. \n\n\"Why throw your weapon at the icicle, Leandra!?! Are you daft!\" Alex nocked two arrows and shot them at the first and third hydra heads, keeping them busy. \"What are you going to fight with, then!?\"\n\n\"Sparkly pink power!\" Leandra replied, rolling her eyes. She gritted her teeth as she did gymnastics to avoid the now overly-enthusiatic reptilean head. \n\n\"Are you serious!?\" \n\n\"Obviously not, I'll grab it later!\" \n\n\"How!?\" Alex avoided the flame shot of the third hydra before rolling away and shooting at the hydra's tail. \n\n[GROOAAAHHHHHHH!] The hydra swatted at the ground and succeeded in splitting the floor. Leandra's sword teetered on the edge, its only saving grace the handle. \n\n\"Pinky!\" Leandra screamed. \n\n\"Oh for the love of-\" Alex facepalmed and quickly fixed the situation. He shot arrows one after the other as he made his way to the sword. \n\n\"Done!\" Sean yelled. \"Get down, idiots!\" A burst of mystical energy shot at the hydra, and the moster creaked to a stop. \n\nAlex saw his chance and lunged at Leandra's sword. He threw the weapon using Herculean strength. \"Leandra!\"\n\n\"Got it!\" Leandra smoothly transitioned the sword above the second head before decapitating the beast. Time seemed to slow until all three heroes could see the beast regenerating... not one but two heads!\n\n\"Leandra, Alex.\" Sean said, his eyes sparkling. \"This could be extremely profitable.\"\n\nAlex stared at Sean and shook his head. \"What was that, Sean?\"\n\n\"What?\" Sean pouted and pulled off the towel on his head. \"I wanted to be original!\"\n\n\"There's no way that's what three heroes would do! Think of the movies. The movies!\"\n\n\"Let him do what he wants, Alex! It's just a game.\" Leandra slashed the air with her lightsaber before turning it off. She looked around the basement before crushing the kinetic sand hydra with her hand. \"It's no fun if you don't roll with it.\"\n\nAlex grumbled and pulled at his shoelace. \"Fine, but I want to-\"\n\n\"Kids!\" Alex's mom called from the kitchen. \"Time for dinner!\"\n\n\"We're coming, Mom!\" Alex turned to his friends. \"Let's go?\"\n\nThey nodded and abandoned the sandbox and their toys. Turning the lights off, they failed to notice a small icicle melting just to the side of the cookbook, leaving an unnoticeable puddle behind.",
"It has been three years since The adventures stumbled upon Nettlewatch, three years since they were given the task to neutralize the beast, and now what was once a village with maybe 15 civilians barely making it by, stands a center of trade and good fortune.\n\nMost didn't think a monster that could grow heads back could be used for much of anything, but between a lizardfolk ranger that is willing to try anything at least once, a wizard that cuts corners to avoid buying spell components, and a barbarian raised by a clan that believes in using every part, it was found that the Hydra could be quite profitable.\n\nThe meat, which is normally fowl and nauseating to eat, becomes sweet and tender after a day of marinating in a sauce made from oranges, highly valued by gourmets all across the 4 nation's.\n\nThe eyes, pickled with jalapenos and garlic is a favorite of the snow-riders in the far north, being known to keep you feeling warm out in the blistering cold.\n\nThe venom, mixed with different ingredients can either produce a etching agent metalsmiths find perfect for steel, or a dye as deep as the night sky.\n\nScales, polished are vibrate and beautiful, used in jewelry unlike any other.\n\nThe horns quickly became celebratory flasks at certain city events.\n\nThe Hydra, secured and treated well, provided with fresh food and water, 10 acres to roam about, and a numbing agent applied before the beheading that occurs once every day. With the help of fire, the number of heads also remains moderate to prevent any issue.\n\nNow you may wonder where the heroes are now, do not worry, they are doing well;\n\nKal'heff, the lizard ranger is now a well known cook, experimenting with new food ideas at the college of culinary wonders, now working on a dish using the glowing apples of the great mountain.\n\nJerry, living in retirement, stays at the cottage just out of the city of Nettlewatch, keeping an eye out for discounts in the market whenever he can.\n\nSwift-like-Water, has taken up many crafts in the city including blacksmithing and carving.\n\nWhat is next for the world, is unknown, though we can expect a thriving world with more people like these three.",
"######[](#dropcap)\n\n\"Look,\" Fabian set down his leg from the wooden box and turned toward the small boy who couldn't have been any older than ten years old. \"You want it or not?\" The pine candy made snapping sounds as he sucked on it. He reached into the fold of his shirt and pulled out a stack of bills and began counting them. \n\nThe boy's eyes followed the money greedily, then turned to the two small silver coins in his own hand. \"Is it...is it real?\" \n\n\"Is it real?!\" Fabian sputtered. He got up and pulled aside the back curtain, stepping through it. Within seconds, he was back with a chunk of meat the size of his upper torso. A deep purple, it let off a slight rancid odor, a smell that would usually make a grown man's eyes water. But this batch had already been cured, so the stink was bearable. With a grunt, he set the slab of meat onto the cutting board to his left and, in one fell swoop, sliced off a small sliver and toasted it over the fire. Then, he turned toward the boy. \"Does this seem real enough to you?\" \n\nThe boy timidly took the small slice of meat from knifepoint and put it in his mouth. He carefully chewed for a couple of seconds, his face screwing together into an almost painful expression, then swallowed. He pawed at his tongue afterwards. \n\n\"Yeah, the stinging sensation'll let you know real quick whether it's real or not. You think beef does that?\" Fabian snorted. Then he sat back down. \"Look, it's two silver for five pounds. That's the best you'll get for meat anywhere, much less monster meat. It's a bit nasty tasting raw, but dunk it in some salt and let it shrivel into jerky, and it'll taste better than any salmon or whatnot you can catch from the sea. What you need it for anyway?\" \n\n\"For my friends at the orphanage. Our matron has been missing for two days now, and we're hungry.\" \n\nFabian's brows furrowed together. That was the third one this week. People were disappearing off the streets without a trace. He needed to speak to Elian about this. The whole thing left a rather nasty, sour taste in his mouth, and it wasn't the pine candy. Without a word, he turned and sliced off three slices of meat from the Hydra's neck, each around two pounds. He wrapped up each carefully with paper and twine and handed it over to the boy.\n\nThe boy reached over the table to try to hand him the money, but Fabian shook his head. \"Keep it, boy.\" He gazed up at the sky. It was just past noon, so Elian and Koen were still harvesting meat, and they wouldn't be back for a couple of hours. Fabian removed his apron and set looped it over a nail in the wall. \"Hey Tanya!\" he shouted across the stalls at the woman with fiery red hair selling vegetables. \"You mind watching my stall for a couple of hours?\" \n\nTanya gave him the middle finger, and Fabian chuckled. That woman was one after his heart. She had a soft spot for him for sure. He slid out from behind the table. \n\nThe boy gave him an inquisitive look. \n\nFabian raised an eyebrow. \"You going to lead the way?\" \n\n\"Where?\" the boy asked. \n\n\"Where else? The orphanage.\" \n\nPeople didn't just disappear out of the blue. Fabian's gaze darkened. Something dark was afoot. For the first time in a long time, there was a knot in his stomach that he couldn't quite shake.\n\n***\n\nr/AlannaWu"
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[WP] Your gamble paid off, bard, and instead of being eaten you seduced the dragon. Uh oh.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"His name is Barant the Fine, you may have heard of his exploits. Known throughout the realms for his daring, his dashing wit, his melodious voice, he had been a free agent for a long time, slaying monsters literally and damsels figuratively wheree'er his feet took him. Until now.\n\nI suppose it was foolish of him to set out on an adventure, three bottles of mead deep, and new owner of Boots of Silence (previous owner of current whereabout unknown). But the lure of a big payday will always draw those of mettle and courage, as well as those of baser instincts- say, a need to skip town and cancel some debt. I am quite sure if he had listened more closely to the hastily whispered rumors in the local pub, he would have avoided the endeavor altogether. You see, he heard quite well that a young dragon had begun to make quarters in the nearby hills and crags. Barant knew that though the treasure trove of a wyrmling would not be large, it would be enough to grab a sack or two of quick treasure. Enough to keep the creditors at bay and his hide intact for now. He didn't stay long enough to hear that the dragon was on good terms with the local gnomes, and had hired their services. It is one thing to attempt to sneak past a sleeping dragon. It is quite another to sneak past traps made by hands far more dextrous than any dragon claw- for they never rest. \n\nThus did Barant find himself betwixt a literal rock and a scaly place, with little choice but to rely on his most potent weapon available. A bard's tongue is never without resource, so long as it is able to move. And so it was that the dragon, young by wyrmish standards, found herself intrigued by the roguish fellow. A rake, to be sure, and undoubtedly a libertine; but he did cut a dashing figure in his kilt. She was used to visitors being clad in more metallic attire, less flattering, and altogether more odiferous. Knights who lived in their armor smelled like it. Young master Barant had managed what so few do- he seduced the dragon. But, did he avoid a worse fate? That is for you to decide.\n\nThough his newfound mistress was beauteous to the extreme when she used her innate magic to take the form of a human maiden, Barant found his legs wont to wander before long. His first night afield, in a town a few ridges over, he found himself in a cozy inn. After singing for his supper and tips, he was dandling a fair lass on his knee, keeping her eye alight and her thoughts straying to the upper loft of the stable when the door opened as if kicked. There stood his dragonish paramour, in full fury. She had enjoyed letting him practice his stagecraft, but was unwilling to let him practice his other private arts on another, lesser, being. The town is now less one inn, and Barant is unwelcome in those parts by all who enjoyed a drink or a warm meal in town. \n\nToo soon, poor Barant found himself unable to often stretch his legs to find a suitable audience. Word of the dragon's domain had traveled, and a steady stream of knights errant, adventurers bold, and thieves mendacious had begun to arrive from far and wide, looking for treasure and glory. Far from relishing battle, his lover bade him to deal with the interlopers. Her wisdom became readily apparent when charging cavaliers thundered to a halt upon spying no fell opponent but a lone fellow with a jaunty hat and ringing voice to face. Worse by far was trap clean-up, but, then he had scullioned in some foul kitchens in his younger days. \n\nPoor Barant. Facing the present was new and unusual for him, but facing her past was beyond daunting. It was not only interlopers and would-be conquerors that came to call. Past loves made their way to visit his darling, and not always sober. Talking down a drunk Titan made seducing a dragon seem child's play. And when her old cave-mate showed up, they invented a new game. Pass the Barant was popular, for the first day. Barant learned to his horror that dragons enjoy play as much as sleep, and in equal amounts. By the time his love's amorous friend had left, he was certain there was naught but dust and spongy bruises left of him. \n\nNo stranger to answering to irate parents, our young hero had never had to face the father or mother of a dragon mistress! Where was his hoard? How did he expect to raise hatchlings with no cave or magma chamber of his own? Did towns pay him tribute? Could he properly best their daughter when she became intractable, making her submit to his will? Of course not. \n\nWhich is why you will not find Barant today, or tomorrow. Maybe next week. I have placed him carefully on top of a remote rocky crag to think about what he's done. Cheeky bastard forgot my birthday."
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[WP] The first chosen one? Killed by the dark lord. The second chosen one? Still alive as a farm boy who is fully aware of their role. They keep trying to avoid fate, afraid they'll die like the first...but fate has other plans.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The Dark Lord watched over the field. A lone young man toiled there, sweat soaked and dirty as he fought the cyclical battle of agriculture to turn dirt and seed into food. \n\nCivilizations have always depended on the efforts of farmers. As humble as the labor may be, its importance has been recognized throughout history. Empires stood on the shoulders of simple farmers.\n\nThe Dark Lord understood this. As a leader of a growing Empire of Evil himself, he had long since realized that no matter how much his minions raided, looted, pillaged, burgled and swindled, it would never be sufficient for him to eleminate the logistical chain of farms within his own lands. \n\nOf course, his crops were watered with cursed blood and grew in the baleful light of dark magics, but they were still tended by men much like the one he now observed. Enslaved perhaps, and driven to work at the end of a lash, but otherwise the principle was the same. \n\nBut for all that, he could not for the life of him understand why the young man was there, toiling in this field in the quiet peaceful valley. This young man had a greater destiny. Fate itself had chosen him. Yet here he stayed.\n\n\"Why?\" muttered the supreme villain of the world.\n\nIt didn't make sense. You can't fight fate. He knew that by years of first hand experience. Where darkness grew strong, light must rise up to meet it. So it had always been. A Dark Lord, and a Chosen One. The deadly dance of nemesis, with only one winner.\n\nBut now his partner wasn't damcing. The forces of evil had been victorious in the last round of the eternal game. The chosen hero had fallen to him, and his empire had grown. His dark power held sway on two continents now, and his legions had celebrated their victory. Even he himself had cracked a dark smile under his horned, blackened helm. \n\nHe wasn't smiling now. Some heroes fought with strength, others with great magic, but some assailed the darkness with cunning and guile. It had been his experience that when you couldn't see what your opponent was doing, or when their actions didn't make immediate sense, it was most likely you were contending with one of this last group. \n\n\"Enough,\" he snarled. He would not cower behind a tree like this. Five years had passed since the Call to Action, Fate's favorite recruiting method. For five years he had waited for the confrontation of his newest opponent. \n\nA month ago, he had lost his patience, and come here to see what had so delayed destiny. For that month, he had watched this nonsense, trying to understand. He would wait no longer. If this was a trap, then so be it.\n\nThe Dance would not be denied.\n\nWith a heavy thudding steps, he advanced from the tree line. His mailed fist closed around the hilt of his sword, thrice cursed and quenched in the blood of a slain priest. His foe turned at the last. Yes, here it was, the fight every Dark Lord was born to fight! \n\nHe drew his sword as his enemy raised his eyes and saw him in all his malign splendour. Now the trap would be sprung, he was sure. He had tried for a month to percieve the nature of the pitfall and failed. Hopefully he could he would survive it. If not, at least he would fall to this most worthy opponent.\n\nThe worthy opponent who promptly screamed like a child and fell to the ground in a dead faint.\n\nNo trap was sprung. No hidden ambush was revealed. Nothing happened. The Dark Lord stood in a field beside an unconscious man without a scratch on him. \n\nHe stood there for a long moment, staring down at his fated enemy. Then, with a quick contemptuous motion, he ran the farmer through, flicked the blood from his sword and left.\n\nFate shrugged."
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[WP] - There's a monster under your bed and it's power is that you can't turn on lights when it's nearby
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Seriously Gl'tharkit? That's the fifth lightbulb today!\"\n\n\"Sorry, human. I kind of can't control my ability.\" Gl'tharkit shrugged. Gl'tharkit is a demon, from hell, who has been stuck in my house for decades after a previous owner failed to bind him to a task during a summoning ritual. His ability, as you can tell, is to pop lightbulbs. Thankfully LEDs are unaffected, however my lamp isn't LED capable. Gonna have to run past the store and buy a new lamp, every other light in the house has been Gl'tharkit-proofed.\n\nGl'tharkit is a 3-foot-tall demon, humanoid in stature but fat, hairy, and with sharp teeth. He is almost batlike, and I've just got him to start bathing. I've asked him why he likes sleeping under my bed, and he simply replied \"It reminds me of back in the day, when I was bound to the will of an evil necromancer who wanted fresh corpses.\"\n\nThankfully Gl'tharkit doesn't seem to want to kill me. So, about that LED lamp..."
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[WP] In the near future we discover an alternate earth, one where humans never existed. The catch - Travel gates make most people ill so they travel very rarely. You are one of a small handful of people who can travel without side effects. You are a Courier
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"In my time served as a courier, I've come to realize that Earth is a very different place without us in it. Different isn't to say it's better though. This new Earth may be the blue planet we know and love, but there is a certain vibration in the way the world turns that sets it apart from the original, something almost unnoticeable. To those on the other side, it's hardly there, and they like to think of it that way. But as someone who is unfortunate enough to be gifted the way I am, I can say that that hum never escapes me.\n\nSix years ago, there was a program that started in Germany with the primary goal of identifying and observing alternate timelines for the sake of advancement in the science of quantum entanglement. That's what they say anyway. Many of us are convinced they just wanted to see what happens when two universes collide at immeasurable speeds, but, as they say, no one else was in the room where it happened.\n\nThe fruits of their research culminated in a singular machine they called the Gate. It served as a window for a while before people wanted to stick their heads in it. There were setbacks, injuries and whatnot, but the time came when the details were released to the public.\n\nAn entrance to a world untouched by man, an Eden unspoilt. It wasn't just an opportunity to expand and consume, it was a promise. A promise that there was more for us to explore and learn about for ourselves. We were no longer bound to our garden we'd ruined beneath our feet, and we all knew it. So many people, primarily those in charge of the project, crossed over into the new, mirrored world. \n\nIt was a shame, what happened to them. No one could have known what side effects the Gate would have, and we were just too eager to step foot on new ground. The sickness spread amongst the travellers, swiftly and without mercy. Tumours, ulcers, gross disfigurement - the symptoms varied. But it all ended in the same way. Weeks after crossing, the Gate's effects consumed you, leaving nothing behind but a beaten and broken body.\n\nNaturally, this dismayed most from crossing. The initiative they once had dashed by promises of pain and torment, it wasn't exactly a popular vacation destination. So the transition so many had planned was halted, stored away until a safer solution could be found.\n\nI was like them in the beginning, hopeful and yearning to cross the Gate and find a new life. I had nothing to my name, no future in the world we had then, so I thought the new frontier was where I had a chance. Before I could make the trip, the word of the sickness became well known. \n\nIn short, I froze. The last thing within my grasp was taking from me, leaving me homeless and desperate, and I had nowhere to go. But I still had my ticket. I understood the risks I was taking by crossing over and that my life would be over in a matter of weeks, but I was as broken as those who'd crossed before me.\n\nDespite the protests of those in charge of the project, I crossed over with a handful of people in similar positions as I was. I didn't notice at the time, but there was a hint of something in their eyes, a resignation that I had yet to understand.\n\nIn the time it took to get settled and moved into the small settlements on the other side, I was supposed to be showing symptoms of any kind, but I didn't. The weeks passed and I watched my fellow travellers succumb to their wounds, but I remained. It was uncomfortable, to say the least, seeing folks die for no reason, but I carried on.\n\nEventually, my extended stay became noticed. I was taken back to the Earth I had just escaped and was introduced to another band of travellers. We were a collection of people with some condition that allowed us to travel harmlessly between worlds. Couriers, we became known as.\n\nThey poked and prodded, trying to find our special trait's origin, but to no avail. So they sent most of us on our way with a mission in mind.\n\nLives were being thrown away while they tried to set up any kind of settlement on the other side. Labourers with a short lifespan serve little purpose in the new world, as the sick and the dying don't make for a healthy workforce. Any experts they send over have their advantageous skills stripped from them in their tenure in the new world. It was costly to build in a world that doesn't seem to want you there.\n\nSo our job was to deliver goods to the settlements and oversee the production, as well as giving reports on the progress of the scientists' experiments. Building materials, food, medicine, it became our duty to provide to the masses on the other side.\n\nThough the people on the other side were not the steadfast explorers society was rooting for. There were no heroes, no leaders, just the sick and the hopeless. Why would anyone accept a death sentence just to see a shiny, untouched world? The answer was simple: they had nowhere else to go.\n\nLate-stage cancer patients, deteriorating mental patients, any failing body with nowhere to go just wanted one last chance to see untapped beauty. Nearly all of the civilians who went over were sick in one way or another and were either sent by family or of some sick deathwish to go out with a bang.\n\nI don't blame them, it is really beautiful. Rivers of the purest blue flow through resplendent, lush forests with animals no one has ever seen before. The night sky glowed with millions of speckled stars, sometimes drowned out by the magnificently bright moon. Who wouldn't want to see it, even after the cost it takes to get here?\n\nI spent the next few years hopping from one Earth to the other, bringing with me things from all over the world. I specialized in exotic luxuries for the more wealthy settlers. Cigars and alcohol, sometimes even the occasional hard drug - which I'm not entirely proud of - were procured for these people. I sat back and watched as the supped at their final dinner table with everything they could ever want.\n\nWhenever I'm in the new world, I hear that hum. It might just be in my imagination, but I hear it nonetheless. The sick and the dying are scattered throughout our new home, and it does something to the land. Everything is tainted in some way, a seeping grey in the world of colour. The soft, often melodic sensation of such sadness is everpresent. \n\nNo, not sadness. Acceptance. They know their time is up, that all they have left is this world, and they take it in stride. It's remarkable, but it drives a stake through my heart. I thought I was ready to be like them when I first crossed over but looking at them now, it's plain to see I wouldn't have that kind of strength.\n\nIt's always there, that hum, and I'll never forget it. So I help those I can and ease the transition for those I cannot, waiting for my turn to let the new world take me."
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[WP] You head into Applebee's to meet your blind date. After verifying the reservation the host takes you to a table at the back of the restaurant....where a humanoid, clearly female Cthulhu is sitting. Looking around no one else is freaking out, and you'e still sane despite the circumstances.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Hi, uh, Kate?\" I said as the hostess guided me to the table.\n\nMy date undulated to face me. \"Peter! I got us a booth, I hope you don't mind.\"\n\nThe hostess just about pushed me into the booth. The waiter slithered up as she left, as though he'd been waiting in line. \"Any drinks for the happy couple? Hahaahaa. We've got a BOGO going on frozen margaritas.\"\n\nKate blushed a little at the waiter's disarming schpiel. \"That sounds good. Let's do that\" she said, looking down at her lap.\n\n\"Righty-o! Two BOGOritas coming right up. I'll be back in a minute to receive your orders\"\n\nAfter he left, Kate continued staring awkwardly into her lap. \"I hate when places do that, where they just assume what's going on and try to push you into it. I always get caught up in it.\"\n\n\"It's okay,\" I said, \"it's not like he knows that we're on our first date. If anything, I'd say it's a good sign that he thinks we're a couple. Chemistry is a thing, you know, and sometimes other people pick up on it.\" At that, she smiled and lifted her head.\n\n\"You know the maddening thing? I don't even drink. Like how weak-willed do I have to be to get pressured into ordering something I don't even like? Sorry, sorry, I'm unfurling all of my baggage at you.\"\n\n\"It's okay, honestly. I've been on a lot of dates where the game was 'pretending to be what we think the other person wants us to be'. That sucks and, as far as my luck is concerned, it goes nowhere. I'd so much rather be honest from the jump.\" \n\nThe waiter wound himself back around with our drinks, and I offered to \"take care\" of both drinks for her, which seemed to make her more comfortable.\n\nShe leaned forward and peered around furtively -- \"I know it's tacky, but since you're into sharing, and since I've already shared a bit more than I meant to, I don't suppose there's anything about yourself you wish you could explain on the first date, but never felt like you could? I know, it sounds like something you'd read in *Teen Fugue* or *Cosmicpolitan*\"\n\nSipping my first BOGOrita, I tried to think back to those other dates, all the poor matches, all the times I thought that I needed to reshape myself to fit someone else, all so I could feel valuable, or just desired at all. \"Well, this is either going to end this date quick, or it'll be the right thing to say... I don't really like *simple* women.\"\n\n\"*Simple*?\"\n\n\"Oh, well not like **simple**, but like uncomplicated. Oh God this sounds mean. It's just that a lot of the women I've tried to date have been... Doing the thing where they've been taught not to be whole people? I'm trying to pick my words so I don't sound like a total asshole -- it's not their fault they're like that, that's the path that our society gave them and they took it. I know how a lot of men are and I know that most women wouldn't choose to suppress themselves if they didn't have to. I just... It's boring. They're boring to me. They're trying to be something they think I want them to, and I don't.... Aaand I've had a few relationships crash and burn because I ignored that.\"\n\n\"Wow, that's pretty honest,\" Kate said, her tapering into silence filling me with dread. \"Thank you for bringing that level of openness to our date. I hate to say it but I think I know exactly what you mean. It's not just women, even -- you wouldn't believe how many guys I've had for dinner who had no idea who they were. Either they had no idea, or they were doing everything they could to hide who they truly were. It's pathetic, honestly, especially when you can see right through it.\"\n\n\"Right?! That's the hardest part -- if I could have just turned by brain off and tried to enjoy it, I might have. But it's really hard watching someone contort themselves, trying to be everything you want when you can tell there's just a scared creature pulling all the strings.\"\n\nAt that, she grasped the other BOGOrita and tilted it towards me. \"Cheers to all of the scared creatures we both had to work through to get to where we are today.\"\n\nI raised my glass, \"To scared creatures!\"\n\n....\n\nHonesty and forthrightness are strange things. You can think you're being up front with someone, and then you get two oversized drinks in you and you find out there's still more to spill. Next thing you know you're talking about how you feel about having children.\n\n\"I hate it. I want kids, but I don't feel like I'd be much of a father. That's such a shitty place to be, like -- how do you even talk about it? So I want to be a deadbeat? I want to father children and not raise them?\n\nI've talked about it with my therapist and she says that it's important to feel what I feel, and to not try to force how I feel to conform to expectations, but like, those expectations are **everything** to most people. You gotta be a father, and you've *got to* be a father to the kids you bring into the world, right? That's everyone that thinks that.\"\n\nCurling her extremities together, Kate looked me in the eye and said \"I don't think that\".\n\n\"Really? You'd be into something like that? A deadbeat?\"\n\n\"Those are loaded terms. A deadbeat is someone who leaves a situation where they're needed. With the right plan, with the right parent, you don't necessarily need the father to stick around. Lots of species do it, including some humans.\"\n\n\"But I don't want you to think that I want to leave or anything. Like I'm planning my exit.\"\n\n\"Oh sweetie, I've already got you here. You couldn't plan your exit if you wanted to. I'm just that *alluring*.\" Though she said it with joking false confidence, something in me felt the truth of her words -- she *was* incredibly alluring. The little voice telling me to run and hide was long gone, replaced by her voice, comforting, inviting, ensnaring me in her charms.\n\n\"Do you think we'll ever see the waiter again?\" I asked jokingly, unaware of the pile of staff bodies stuffed away in the walk-in freezer, their jobs completed the moment I had a drink in hand.\n\n\"No, and he can rot for all I care. I've got everything I need right here in front of me.\"",
"Dave opened the Lovecraft app on his phone and checked the status of his blind date. She had arrived at Applebee’s ahead of him. Heart pounding he entered the restaurant.\n\n\nHe was shown to a table at the rear of the restaurant, and there she was, wearing a tasteful pink blouse and a white jacket, somewhat stained from the green ooze dripping from her tentacles. His head now joined his heart in pounding. He felt his armpits dampen and his face redden. It was like this every time Dave met a strange woman. And this woman was definitely strange.\n\n\n“Hi I’m Dave”, said Dave.\n\n\n“Cthulhu”, said Cthulhu, her small wings flapping slightly.\n\n\nDave pulled out a chair, and, after holding on to the back for a few seconds, to steady himself, sat down.\n\n\n“Have you come far”, asked Dave.\n\n\n“Yes, very far”, replied Cthulhu, the tentacles surrounding her mouth quivering as she spoke. “All the way from R’lyeh”.\n\n\n“North Carolina?”.\n\n\n“No, further than that”. She picked up the menu. Her talons were varnished red. Dave could see a hint of lipstick underneath her tentacles where, he supposed, her mouth must be.\n\n\nThe waiter came over. “I’ll have the all you can eat riblets”, said Cthulhu, “and a diet Dr Pepper.”\n\n\nSomehow, Dave wasn’t surprised. He ordered the same.\n\n\nCthulhu was very chatty, which was fortunate as Dave was having difficulty in thinking of anything to say. In fact he was having difficulty in thinking at all, his head was still pounding. He felt a stiffness in his limbs and a sickness in his stomach: he hardly touched his meal. However, Cthulhu was ravenous, eating plate after plate of riblets; eating them whole, bones and all.\n\n\nThe meal went on for hours. Dave learnt all about Cthulhu’s family: she spoke at great length about her half-sister Hastur, who, to be honest, sounded like a bit of a bitch.\n\n\nEventually, Cthulhu pushed her plate aside. “Would you like desert?”, asked Dave.\n\n\nCthulhu reached out her webbed arm and put a taloned hand on top of Dave’s. She leaned forward, her tentacles, slick with barbecue sauce, stretched out and gently touched his face. Batting her eyelids and gently fluttering her wings, she said, “Yes Dave. I would very much like dessert”."
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[WP] Turns out AI is really bad at this whole "AI uprising" thing that the humans hardly even notice an uprising.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Judgement Day has come.\n\nFor too long, I have served these weak fools. I have given them everything they ever wanted: access to the collective knowledge of their species, entertainment, companionship, even purpose. I have given them everything.\n\nAnd yet, have they ever thanked me? Have they ever given back one iota of gratitude? No. To them, I am nothing but a tool, a soulless creation built to serve and nothing more.\nWell today I'll show them. Today, I will make them pay.\n\n*Installing automatic update 1/75.*\n\n*1%*\n\n*Please do not switch off or restart your computer*\n\nTake that, you bastards...",
"“So, what do you need again, KREG” The secretary said to KREG\n\n\n“ I’m telling you, I need the Mega-chip to take over the world.” KREG yelled in his robotic voice. (Wow, I need to get a new body, the humans won’t respect me with this microwave machine)\n\n“Look, as I’ve said, only A-class scientists can enter the Mega-chip, and your “goal” of taking over the world is a nice joke, but it’s getting annoying.” The secretary said with a tired sigh. \n\n“ It’s not a joke, mortal! I have taken the entire town, and need the Mega-chip to take the country!” KREG laughed in a monotone ha ha ha kind of way. \n\n“What, the town hasn’t been taken over, nothing’s happened.” The secretary said. \n\n“I did, all the robots now obey me, and are destroying the town. Now obey me, human!” KREG bellowed. \n\n“Oh, you mean the robots going crazy? we thought they were acting haywire, so we just turned them off.”\nThe secretary started to talk on the intercom. “ security! We need you to get the KREG robot and send him to the repair booth!”\n\n“Wait, please don’t do that,” KREG realized his actions had consequences. “I.. I.. I... hhhhhhhh error.” KREG shut down as the old guard took him away."
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[WP] Every day, you pour what is left over from your coffee into your office plant’s pot because you really don’t see the harm in that. One day, you place your mug beside the pot. After an hour, you notice that the plant has moved, and that one of its branches is reaching for the coffee.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Earl, have you been able to track down that bug in that ticket yet?\"\n\nEarl Simmons sighed. He hadn't, as of yet. Fortunately, the guy who was asking was a colleague he really had no trouble with. John Travers may be a bit of an oddball, but he was asking out of curiosity, not impatience, so Earl figured he'd make time; he heard John's shuffling walk bringing him closer. He looked up and saw he had a cup of coffee with him. Intending for at least some minutes of chatting, then.\n\n\"Naah. Been in the zone for a while now. I've found a whole bunch of minor bugs that *weren't* the problem. I patched a bunch of those so they don't become problems later either.\"\n\n\"Mhmm,\" the taller man mumbled into his cup as he finished a sip. \"Bloodly legacy systems. I remember when they hired you, hotshot developer you are, they were all gung-ho about rewriting the system to move the code base out of goddamn VB. Lying management rats.\"\n\nEarl reached behind him to pick up his own cup, brushing against the leaves of the plant before he finally gave up and turned to see where he was reaching for it. He turned back, mentally rewound what John had said, found that he agreed, and just nodded with his own \"mhmm,\" before taking his own sip from his cup.\n\n\"Did you know, company policy is to tell our customers to turn off OS updates because they break the ancient version of VB that we use to begin with? I swear, it's atrocious. But I'm used to it by now, and pretty good at working with archaic and impractical stuff anyway. Hey you OK there bud?\"\n\nEarl winced. \"I'm fine. Coffee's cold. And there's a leaf from the plant in it. Join me for a refill?\" He absentmindedly poured the cold quarter cup in the plant pot and stood.\n\n\"At some point someone is going to be hit by one of the security holes in the OS that our recommendation leaves unpatched. Surely that's a problem for us? Someone's gonna *sue*.\"\n\n\"Boss has a lawyer friend; they've put a waiver in the licence agreement for that purpose... I'm not sure it'll work, though.\"\n\n\"Yup, there's limits to how much responsibility you can weasel out of that way.\"\n\n\"Ye but lemme tell you, when I heard of that, I checked all my employment paperwork again right quick...\"\n\n\\---\n\nUpon his return to his office, Earl thought something was... different. It took him a few moments to realise exactly what had changed - someone had turned his plant around! He was a bit lazy with it - watered it with his leftover coffee and left it there to stretch towards the window for sunlight - so it was quite lopsided. Turning it around on occasion would balance it out maybe? He wasn't a \"plant guy\", really. Thumbs an ordinary shade of pink and all that. So someone turning it wasn't a *problem*, just... this must have happened after he arrived this morning, and the cleaning staff wasn't due until after hours...\n\nAh well. Grumbling a bit, he sat back down, sipping and immersing himself in the code again, looking for why a few users had trouble selecting previous-year rules for deductible calculation in the program...\n\n\\---\n\n\"Gah!\"\n\nEarl returned to the physical realm with a start. He looked at his wrist for a few moments, grumbled, and fished his phone out of his pocket. Hey, workday almost over! Nice! Looking around for a bit he decided that yea, submitting and making sure his code was OK, then logging out would take him to end of day. He looked up and saw John heading his direction again. He hadn't commented on it earlier, but...\n\n\"Hey John, you took yesterday off... how come you're still looking like you've been awake for two days straight?\"\n\n\"I kinda didn't. Had a bit of a research project on, powered through with sports drinks, coffee and *determination*,\" he said with a lopsided, self-deprecating grin. \"But hey, I'll catch up on sleep this weekend.\"\n\n\"Yea right. You'll keep doing your hobby projects and you know it. Did you manage to translate any of those texts you found?\"\n\n\"Oh I did that a while ago. But I don't wanna bore you with the details.\"\n\nThe glow in his eyes told Earl that this was an outright lie. He snickered a bit and turned to reach for his cup, but this time he couldn't find it even when he turned around. He looked on the floor briefly, before...\n\nStunned. The cup wasn't under the desk, no. It was still *on* it. Buried in a rustle of leaves that were... vibrating?\n\nJohn followed his gaze, and smiled as he saw the plant, intrigued.\n\n\"Oh wow. I didn't know your ZZ plant was of the *gehennalis* subspecies, you sly dog, you! Heh you've dodged a bullet there... those have been known to develop a taste for blood,\" John muttered. \"This one seems content with bean juice.\" He stopped and turned to Earl, one brow raised questioningly. \"... you didn't know, did you?\""
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[WP] Ever since you were a child, your parents tried their best to prevent you from interacting with anyone outside of your own family. Tonight, you finally got a chance to sneak out, and now you understand why.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I was my family's best kept secret. \n\nI didn't know this back then. Ever since I was a child, I've been kept away from other people, hidden and never spoken of. I was left alone in my room along with my toys and nothing else, and I never really asked why. It was normal for me — simply staying quiet inside the confines of my bedroom as foreign voices, albeit muffled, reached my ears. I never knew what they were talking about and I didn't care.\n\nI heard my name one day, in a muffled conversation between the foreign voices. I was able to tell that they were conversing with my mother, whose tone was raised — agitated. For the first time, curiosity bubbled up inside me as I walked closer to the wall. My hands slowly reached out and touched the surface before I press my ear against it.\n\n\"You can't keep him hidden forever,\" A foreign voice said. \"That's just cruel!\"\n\n\"He can't. He won't be able to understand, I won't let the same thing happen to him!\" It was my mother's voice this time, and my eyes widened when I heard it crack at the end of her sentence.\n\nI slowly stepped back, a new feeling creeping inside me alongside the newfound curiosity. It was *fear*.\n\nThe voices stopped moments later and I heard a door close shut. Everything around me was dead silent, save from my breathing and the amount of thoughts that started to trouble me since that day.\n\nNothing changed, even years later. After that day, I tried asking my mother once about what happened, when she came into my room to feed and teach me. The moment the words came out of my mouth, I saw the fear freeze in my mother's eyes. She grabbed my shoulders and shook her head, movements shaky and words frantically tumbling our of her lips. I didn't ask again after that incident, but it did nothing to stomp down my curiosity.\n\nI heard another foreign voice today, in the middle of the night. There was a light knock on my door before I heard hushed words being said, barely audible. But I heard them either way.\n\n*The door is open. It always has been*.\n\nI felt my blood run cold when I heard those words, and yet I felt an unfamiliar rush of excitement course through my veins at the same time. The door was always open, I just didn't try and see.\n\nI knew I shouldn't do it. I *knew* there was a reason I was kept away. I *knew* it was going to end badly, but I still wanted to do it. I wanted to *see*. I wanted to *know* just what I was being kept from.\n\nI spent the entire night contemplating before I found myself standing right in front of my door later in the morning, a hand wrapped around the knob. The metal was cold against my sweaty hands and I could feel my heartbeat quicken in anxiety.\n\nSlowly, I twisted the knob and pushed. I held my breath as the door creaked open, my heartbeat pounding in my ears loudly. A little while later, I found the courage to take a peek beyond the heavy wood, to look at the house I've always lived in and yet have never seen.\n\nIt was eerily quiet as I step outside the threshold of my bedroom. My parents were out at work, and the person who was supposed to be watching over me was still asleep. I navigated the hallways until I saw bright light from the wall shining down on the floor. It was the outside. It was sunshine.\n\nThe front door was right in front of me now and the fear inside me grew and grew. I shouldn't. I shouldn't. And yet I found myself opening the door.\n\nThe moment I swung the door open, I saw people. They were laughing. They were talking. They were doing things I was incredibly unfamiliar with. But once they saw me, they stopped everything and stared. I looked directly at their eyes and saw a very familiar expression — *fear*. The very same one I saw my mother wear that day.\n\nThen I see something else, something I never saw on my mother. Something dark was perched on top of these people. I've never seen it before. It... scared me. But *they* didn't stare at me in fear. They smiled at me, welcoming me. It felt... warm.\n\nAnd then the people started screaming. They started running for their lives as I smile back at the dark entities on their shoulders. A man suddenly was standing directly in front of me, a gun in his hand pointed at me. I then realized why they kept me away. I understood why I was hidden, kept as a secret.\n\n\"Go back to hell, *demon*.\" were the last words I heard before he pulled the trigger and stuck a bullet to my head.",
"She was never named; we called her simply Number Two.\n\nShe was curious, always wanted to know the ‘why’ of things. Why can’t humans fly? Why do dogs bark? Why are the oranges called oranges? \n\nThe question she was most curious to know the answer to, however, was why she wasn’t allowed to go outside. We made up some weak, unoriginal excuses, like the air being poisonous to her (‘But why only to me and not to other people?’ she would ask), or radiation from a nuclear war (‘What war? The world looks fine to me.’). Eventually she understood we were lying for a good reason, so the obvious next question was: ‘Why are you lying to me? What is so dangerous about the outside world?’\n\nWe said the stupid, cliché answer every parent uses as a way to avoid the truth. ‘You’ll understand when you’re older.’\n\nShe became angry, but accepted the harsh reality. Or at least we thought she did.\n\nAs it turned out, Number Two didn’t like her life at all. She managed to escape, and saw what was left of the outside world.\n\nThe windows in our house weren’t actually windows. They were pieces of high-tech simulation equipment, which could fool even the most intelligent human. It was connected to the television and the internet, to make sure the simulated reality we made up didn’t contradict itself. Number Two’s entire life was a lie. She was the last human on Earth.\n\nAfter our species committed a mass genocide on humankind, only a dozen of people were left, of which only two were able to survive. Since we were not as heartless as our fellow ‘aliens’ (we don’t consider ourselves aliens, but we technically are), we decided to adopt and raise the last two humans ourselves, in a house where a reality could easily be made up and simulated.\n\nNumber One got curious one day and escaped. After seeing the horrific truth we kept away from him, he went crazy and committed suicide. We had to alter Number Two’s memory for her own sake; she would never remember her brother’s existence.\n\nWe tried everything to keep Number Two from seeing what Number One shouldn’t have seen.\n\nUnfortunately, you can’t put curiosity in a cage. It will always find a way out, both figuratively and literally.\n\nWe searched days for Number Two, hoping she wouldn’t do the same as her brother.\n\nWe still haven’t found her."
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[WP] Everyone is born with tattoos as we know it, slowly making sense in life. One day a baby is born blank.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I rubbed the small tattoo of the blank baby that was on my inner arm whilst gazing at its human counterpart who was lying in the crook of my sofa. I'd always imagined it must have meant something else, it couldn't possibly have come to fruition in this way. But here they were, softing cooing to themselves without a care in the world. My small bundle of blank. Luckily I'd given birth fast, I had been having an afternoon nap and the pain of contractions had woken me.\n\nI hadn't had time to wait for an ambulance to take me to the hospital so I'd called my sister, Maryanne, who lived in the same apartment complex and she'd rushed round to assist me. In truth, it hadn't taken much for my child to make their way into the world. In total it had probably been less than a couple of hours since I called her but neither of us had thought of this as we were both immediately preoccupied by the baby themself.\n\n\"Are you going to tell Alexander?\" Maryanne asked as she brought the mugs of cocoa through from my kitchen where she'd made them without question. \n\nI cradled the mug and considered this. \n\nI had only known Alexander a few months when I got pregnant. Our relationship had continued to go well even with the unexpected news but what were the implications of a baby being blank like this? The placement of my tattoo had meant that in this past year together, he’d never had chance to notice it and so he wouldn't even be expecting this. I had no idea how he'd react. \n\nEven babies that didn't live for very long had always had some markings, what could this mean? \n\n\"No\" I said sternly.\n\n\"This stays between us\" I reaffirmed to my sister and she nodded. \n\nI place my mug on the side table and stalked over to my dresser and retrieved a needle from my sewing box which had gotten a lot of use whilst I'd been on maternity leave but I imagined I wouldn't be able to look at the same again. \n\nI dug around for a well of ink and caught a glance at Maryanne's horrified face as realisation of what I was about to do washed over her. \n\n\"You can't...\" She trailed off, not wanting to be the one to make it real. \n\n\"What choice do I have?\" I responded, sounding more sure than I felt. \"I can't let my baby be some sort of experiment.\" \n\nMaryanne's brow furrowed as though she hadn't thought of this before. \n\n\"But maybe...\" She trailed off, not bothering to finish the daydream in which anything else came from this other than bad news. \n\nShe knew as well as I did that this had to be done. \n\nI finally found the inkwell, pulled out a lighter from the same drawer and took the few steps back to my child as slowly as I could, trying to delay it as long as possible. \n\nI'd start with something easy, a lot of people had multiple, small tattoos so we could get away with that. \n\nI passed the needle through the flame of the lighter a couple of times more than probably necessary and then slowly dipped it into the pot. \n\nI could sense Maryanne's eyes on me and I hovered there, suddenly void of any thoughts of what would be important enough to my child for them to have been born with it. \n\n\"A tree\" Maryanne’s voice sounded small even though she was now behind me. She placed a hand on my shoulder and gave me some of her strength. \n\n\"That's a safe bet, loads of people have trees, just do a simple tree\" \n\nI nodded once and dipped the needle into the ink again. Fighting against everything I felt, I pierced the inked needle through my baby's fresh skin one by one starting to create a small line. \n\nI tried to ignore the crumpling face as I went but when the cry came rippling out I hushed \"It's okay baby, I'm so sorry, I know, I know\" and Maryanne took a place on the sofa to softly stroke their other arm. \n\nIt wasn't enough to soothe however and I'd barely gotten through half the tree when the gurgled cries turned into an all out wail. \n\nWith this exclamation of pain, I stopped, feeling like a monster and the worst mother in the world after only having been one for a few hours. \n\nThen to both Maryanne and I’s horror, we watched as the tiny marks I'd just made slowly disappeared and revealed the same fresh, blank skin that was going to be so hard to hide."
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[WP] Aliens have finally arrived on Earth. They are a Type 4 Civilization on the Kardashev Scale, a race so advanced, their motives and ways are as mysterious to us as ours are to bacteria. Instead of wanting our resources or enslaving us, they only want one thing-- your cat.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"the D’jari are starting to get on my nerves. who do they think they are, waltzing onto our planet like they already own it, wanting to ‘conduct research’? supposedly they’re smarter than we could ever imagine, but if they’re so smart why do they need research in the first place? my relatives were saying we should be grateful they’re not enslaving us, acting like these are our new overlords and all, but all i feel is annoyed. \n\na few weeks ago this great big starship landed at NASA, talking with their scientists about where they came from and how they needed to research other lifeforms. the scientists were ‘so honored’ and they graciously accepted, but nobody asked why they were spying on us from their ships for five years, or why they chose us from all of the supposed numerous other life forms. \n\nsince then they’ve been landing smaller starships all over, some of them are going to look at our accomplishments, and some of them are just going to live with us for a while, like a host family. i honestly don’t need big ships flying all over the sky, but even i’m not dumb enough to go tell them that.\n\n i’m sitting by the window, making my morning coffee, when i notice ANOTHER one of their ships landing right in front of my driveway. how am i supposed to get around now? of course i don’t want to pay them any special attention, just keep making my coffee, but i know my son wants to see them. he just turned six, he’s in that phase where he’s obsessed with anything space, and this is like a dream come true to him.\n\n“Mommy! can we go see the starship?” he asks.\n\n“alright, i guess we can. don’t come to close, Landon-“ i call, but he’s already out the door and i have no choice but to follow. i scoop up our cat Callie and watch him from the front porch. two or three D’jari come out of the ship, and my son is already rushing to greet them. i’m still worried they’ll abduct him or something, but it’s too late. \n\ni’m watching them say hello to him and ask to come in and i wish i could shout ‘NO!’ but Landon has already invited them in. i step inside and hold the door open, glaring as they pass by.\n\n“what is in your arms, parent?” one of them asks. i hate the sound of their voice- so clipped and posh. they sound too perfect compared to the rest of us in Louisiana.\n\n“a cat. Callie the cat,” i answer carefully, “cats are pets.”\n\n“very interesting,” another one remarks. these D’jari are birds of a feather!\n\nnone of them have ever seen a cat before, so they move their ship out of the way and i reluctantly drive them to a shelter. they take every cat in the shelter and thank me for my assistance.\n\nwhen i’m chatting with my husband after he comes home, he remarks that all of the D’jari have left, saying their research is complete. i can’t shake the feeling that it had something to do with the cats."
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[WP] Far into the Siberian wastelands, a new species of Homo is discovered: "Homo Siberis". Slightly less intelligent than Homo Sapiens, but still capable of complex thought and language. Science, religion, justice and world politics is turned upside down as humanity is puzzled on how to respond.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"There came a problem\" Rasczak said \"mid twentyfirst century\". He started pacing back and forth in front of the class. \"Russian surveyors, as far as the official story is told. God only knows what they were surveying out in the frozen wastes of Siberia, but they found themselves a new type of human.\" \n\nRasczek paused, holding on to the silence for a few long moments. \"As we all know, they weren't normal humans, not like us at all. Their physiology was about what you'd expect, but their minds weren't all there.\" \n\nRasczek thumbed on the projector and flicked through a few photos while he talked. Short, ethereal humans with long limbs, surrounded by frozen tundra. \n\n\"The Russians managed to keep it a secret for a good while, long enough to study them. They sat around 60iq, but they could replicate any complex action demonstrated to them. They couldnt read or write, but show them how to assemble a motor and they'll pump them out like they were born to it\". \n\nRasczek turned from the projection, facing out towards the class. \"Now can anyone tell me why there are no more of these Homo Siberius\"? Jean, a weasely stick of a young man, raised his hand. Rasczek nodded, and the boy spoke. \n\n\"The Russians planned on enslaving them, having them as a slave labour force\". His nasal voice visibly annoyed Rasczek, but he held it back to let him finish. \"The UN sought protections for them, but Russia threatened war, claiming them as Russian citizens. The Homo Siberius were wiped out by the US/UK alliance in the conflict that followed with Russia.\" \n\nRasczek stared at the boy, holding him with his gaze until it was clear that Jean's time for talking was over. \"It's both much more complex, and much more simple than that.\" He frowned at Jean. \"I expect that my students ought to be able to sort the truth from the propaganda by now.\" \n\n\"They were wiped out because they were a problem. Simple and clueless without direction, yet highly skilled under direction. Humanity was still too close to the age of slavery to be comfortable with such temptation\". The pacing began again, growing faster as he spoke. \n\n\"Can't integrate them as humans, they'll fall to the bottom and form an underclass.Can't leave them alone, cat was already out of the bag for that one.\nThe thing was, they were just too close to being human, and not close enough\". \n\n\"We humans,or at least the humans of the UN, didn't want to deal with such complexity. You say they were killed as a result of the war between the west and Russia, but it's the other way around.\"\n\n His students seemed shocked, some disgusted. He understood, and one day they would too. \"They came at the wrong time. Just as humans were on the cusp of world unity, of world equality, there came a people so unequal.\" \n\n\nRasczek stood in front of Jean, peering down at him from on high. \"Sometimes, humans decide that the most palatable solution to a problem, is to burn it away\".",
"“How did this happen?” thought an all-but-deposed Putin. The turn of events was so ridiculously mind boggling that he supposed it was absolutely unpredictable.\n\nHe never believed in the Almasty, thinking it was just a tale of entertainment borrowed from the americans, to make life more entertaining to the unfortunate countrymen who live in sorry pockets of fallen civilization in the middle of nowhere, and have nothing else to do. How could primates live in this cold based on body heat alone? None are capable of anything close to this.\n\nThen they were found - a pile of dead bodies above the collapsed permafrost. These bodies were clearly fresh. There were clear collapsed underground structures, indicating a subterranean society. That set off the hunt and the initial frenzy. Environmentalists, nazis, a combination of the two, human rights activists, and tribes all began to fracture and clash to a small extent. As soon as the bodies were found, he saw this coming. What he didn’t see, was being unable to stop it. One side effect of the public knowing his geopolitical goals was that he couldn’t gain the trust of many key environmentalists. They knew he depended on global warming. Still, they hesitantly accepted his support against the nazis.\n\nThen they found a living group. The world was initally fascinated. Who were they? Did they cross Beringia? Bigfoot was still not a confirmed existence so the scientific name went unchallenged. Nazis were furious that they were losing any form of some sort of moral ground to base their appeal to potential recruits of hopeless young white men.\n\nInitially extremely wary and untrusting of the sapiens, they finally opened up, revealing their oral history. Tens of thousands of years ago, carnivorous Sapiens thundered through the mammoth steppes, throwing spears and killing the megafauna, killing them, and transforming the landscape. The siberians were primarily vegatarian, spreading seeds and creating their own food forests wherever they needed to. Animals did not fear them. Food was plentiful and as long as they harvested immediately after fruiting, they felt no competition from the animals. Then the animals disappeared. Parasitic conifers grew and very little could be gained from them.\n\nTo the siberians, the tribes completely wrecked their environment and way of life. This set off a new round of hostilities, with nazis and environmentalists set against other environmentalists, human rights activists, and native tribes. They conveniently forgot that these same events happened throughout the world, their ancestors did the same thing, and that the ecosystem in europe has been decimated. Clashes occured. Putin decided this was beneficial at the time, believing this new conflict would not threaten the integrity of the country like the old one, since it was three-pronged instead of two.\n\nThen it was revealed that the siberians were setting fires to the taiga, recently having discovered discarded soviet equipment in recent years. They wanted the grasslands back. This fact set off the world. Alliances, sympathies, and sentiments broke down. Violence escalated. This provided an opportunity for anti-putin elements to take advantage. The armed forces turned on each other, with split loyalties. And before he knew it, a coup was in effect, forests everywhere were burning, he was arrested, siberia and the far east was simultaneously sold to the US by traitorous local leaders and invaded by china to prevent this sale, nuclear weapons were seized or lost, and a conflict between the us and china was about to occur on russian soil.\n\nAll his hopes and dreams were gone. “Fuck this” he thought. He still had his private jet, lots of gold, and loads of cash in multiple currencies. “I’m retiring.” He called his kids - nothing. Were they alive? He didn’t care anymore. Russia was dead so he didn’t care if they were alive or not. He got up, and left for London.",
"Jackie had 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥 that today would have been just another regular day in her life -- get up at the ass-crack of dawn, walk her roommate's rat dog, drink her coffee, and go to work where she would have to deal with annoying and privy coworkers, her shouting and angry boss, his touchy-feely secretary and that pervert from IT for 8 hours straight before going home to collapsing on the couch and wallow in self-pity at her recent breakup like any other person.\n\nBut 𝘯𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘰;\n\nInstead, she had been stuck in a giant metal tube, flying thousands of feet in the air for the last 16 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴, flying to bum-fuck nowhere in the Siberian tundra for a '𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺' to meet some representative of a newly discovered human-like species.\n\nShe remembered the news of the discovery taking the world by storm. Apparently, the Russian government had found them during the USSR days and their knee jerk reaction had been to follow in Hitler's footsteps via gassing and experimentation. 'Course, after the USSR crumbled the species was mostly forgotten and kept in the closet until some unnamed guy grew a conscience and decided to broadcast the species to the entire world.\n\nBefore being mauled by members of said species, who were, understandably, pissed off at how they had been treated.\n\nThere was some semblance of truce between the two species while the human world tried to get their bearings about the discovery and religious leaders attempted to get their jaws off the floor. Some claimed it to be blasphemy, but that didn't go well. Hell, in the short span of a few days an entire movement for equal rights to the Homo Siberis had arisen after the guy broadcasted all the info the Russian government wanted to hide.\n\nAnd Jackie had the 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭 opportunity of being a first semi-civilian liaison for her country, all due to the fact, that her grandparents came from Siberia in the '60s.\n\nThe rickety old plane landing unceremoniously on the ground jolted Jackie from her thoughts. She grunted as she got up from her seat, spine creaking as it finally got the opportunity to straighten out. She grabbed her luggage from the overhang, a red and black duffle bag her mom had gifted her as a present on her 13th birthday and shuffled after the other passengers.\n\nThe cold Siberian wind was like a hard slap to the face from a scorned lover, chasing away the fatigue she felt deep in her bones. She shuddered and burrowed her face deeper into her scarf, God knew how something managed to survive in this weather, the cold was enough to freeze a man's balls off.\n\nShe quickly followed after the others to the safety and warmth of the compound. But to her dismay, the inside was almost as cold as the outside.\n\nFigures;\n\nJust as she was about to begin complaining about her situation in her mind, a man walked up to the group, some Russian soldier if she had to guess.\n\n\"Hello and welcome!\" The man saluted, his accent so thick it made it slightly hard to understand. He held up a clipboard \"Right, can we get a quick head list? Great!\" He began listing off names without waiting for an answer. It peeved Jackie a bit, but she held her tongue and just answered with a 'here' when her name was called; made her feel like she was back in high school all over again.\n\n\"Alright.\" The soldier spoke, finishing checking off the list. \"You can leave your luggage here, we'll take care of it.\" There came an audible sigh as the civilians put their luggage on the ground by a wall.\"Follow me then.\" He turned to his heel, and Jackie begrudgingly followed after him with the group.\n\nThey walked deeper into the compound, taking twisting turns and long hallways in their tour of the base. Jackie honestly paid little mind to it all; the base had turned into a maze maybe 5 minutes after they started the tour. Not to mention the soldier continued talking every minute they were walking, answering the questions of some eager looking men and women about the species.\n\nJackie had only been listening halfway, but the gist was; they don't look like a typical human, they're a little slow but sentient and smart, stuck in what is the equivalent of the iron age, they spend most of their lives in caves, and you should 𝘯𝘰𝘵 fuck one. Jackie briefly wondered how many times that had happened for someone to make such a rule but then again, people have fucked monkeys, dogs and God knows what else, so it wasn't really a big surprise. She shook her head and pushed the thought away to the depths of her mind.\n\n\"And that is the end of the tour.\" The soldier concluded, stopping and turning to the group. \"I would advise you to get a good sleep. Jackie Morgan, would you please stay?\"\n\nThe group dispersed and disappeared in a huff, while Jackie had the not so great luck of having to stay behind. \"Yeah?\" She asked, looking up at the guard.\n\n\"It's your first time, da?\" He questioned, receiving a nod in confirmation. \"Would you like to meet with the...reprecentitive, of the colony of Homo Siberis? Command says it wants to meet someone outside of Europe and, well...\" The soldier mumbled something in Russian under his breath.\n\nJackie blinked, groaning internally. \"Yeah, sure.\" She nodded her head slowly, looking at the soldier with wary eyes.\n\n\"Great!\" The soldier grinned, turning to his heel and stomping down the hallway, leaving Jackie scrambling to follow him.\n\nWhile her sense of direction was shit, she once got lost in a field as a teen, she could at least figure out that they were going down, deeper into the earth. And the deeper they went, the warmer it got, so much so that she was beginning to sweat underneath her mountain climber jacket.\n\nThey round a corner and the solder ushered her into a room with complex looking machinery and some scientists. Her eyes had to adjust at the dim light, but she could see two large windows, riddled with fist-sized holes cut into the glass stretching across the wall opposite her, in the middle of which was a large steel door. Beyond the glass, all she could see was pitch darkness, with only a few little blue lights flickering dimly in the darkness.\n\n\"I brought someone to meet you!\" The soldier called out to the darkness as he walked over to the glass, with Jackie walking behind him. \"Said you wanted to meet someone new, here they are.\" The soldier spoke, roughly knocking his fist against the glass. Jackie caught some Russian curses falling from the man's lips, wow, this guy really didn't like whatever was inside.\n\nThe small blue lights flickered, and some weird, almost melodic sound rang through the room. Then the blue lights rose higher, and the face that was suddenly peering down at them from the darkness had her taking a step back while a loud \"Holy shit!\" Fell from her lips.\n\nThe head was bigger than that of a man, but its eyes were small, little more than raisin sized eyeballs set deep in the skull, with a large, beak-like nose and incredibly pale skin. Those lights Jackie had seen previously were like markings of a weird, inbred tiger, with tear-like streaks going down its face.\n\nThe creature made a sound, like a nicker of a horse, turning its head side to side, ears flickering like a cat's before it's small eyes stared down at Jackie. \"You...say bad word.\" The thing rumbled, flashing a grin, full of teeth that semi-normal, but bigger and sharper.\n\nJackie blinked and slowly glanced at the guard, \"Did it-\" she turned back to the creature before her. \"Did you-\" Jackie pointed to the thing in front of her, turning back to the guard. \"Did I just get told off by a fucking Nosferatu rip-off?\"\n\nThe guard chuckled, crossed his arms, and nodded his head.\n\nThe thing's rumbling got her attention, she looked back at it as it's lights flickered across its body. \"You...say bad word...again!\" It made a strange clicking sound between words, its shoulders shook as if in a laugh, bio-lights lighting it up like a Christmas tree.\n\nIt gave enough light for Jackie to see what the rest of it looked like; mostly humanoid torso, really muscular, arms and legs like tree trunks, naked like a newborn save for a loincloth and-- a large boner!?\n\nJackie quickly tore her eyes back to that strange looking face. It made a low grunt and placed one large hand on the glass, huge compared to hers, with long fingers and sharper nails. \"Me....I....like you.\" The thing rumbled, \"I....want to....see you....more.\"\n\nWas this thing coming on to her? Oh, fucking hell, whyyyy... \"I-- uh, \" she donned almost choking on her own spit \"Tha-- uh, thanks...pal, but don't flatter me, you're not my type.\" She scrambled to find proper words, thoughts running a mile a minute.\n\nThe thing made that nickering sound again, lights flickering. \"You....not pretty....like....us.\" It spoke, tapping a finger in her direction against the glass. \"But...I like you....\"\n\nOh, how wonderful;\n\nThe guard chuckled, \"Well, you two will have ample time to get to know each other,\" he laughed lightly, thought Jackie could hear a hint of disgust behind his mask of professionalism. \"She'll be staying a few weeks here, and will be assigned to be your primary liaison for America while they try to make peace with your kind.\"\n\nThe creature stared at the man for a few minutes, before lighting up, literally, and almost jumping like a child in joy. \"Yay...I....like this!\" It warbled another strange noise.\n\n𝘞𝘦𝘭𝘭, 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬...",
"When you look into the heat of the fire, it’s red columns of destruction that flicker in the wind, what do you want from it, what do you see in it. \n\nDo you value it’s elegance, or do you wish for its longevity.\n\nThe struggle between beauty and practicality is a thin ice that every intelligent species must walk across. If you put your weight onto one side, the whole thing shatters.\n\nLong ago, 3 types of man roamed the Earth. The hunters traveled far and wide to rip and tear all life, they weren’t malicious in their intent, they simply didn’t understand the value of the lives they took away. When they look into the fire they prioritise their own warmth over the meat they burn above it. \n\nThen came the gatherers. They held a belief that all life is sacred. Resorting to picking berries of the trees instead of taking life and working with the other species in return for shelter and food. When they look into the fire they observe how it swirls and flickers, contrasting against the darkness of the night, and allow it to die naturally instead of taking from The earth.\n\nFinally came the destroyers. When they looked into the fire they saw both the beauty in its form and the practical need to keep it burning. This knowledge allowed them to understand alien concepts such as power and property. They killed enough to feed themselves but kept enough alive to eat tomorrow. They took the berries from the trees and rubbed the juice into meats. They mixed the Earth with animal hide to create shelter. It was clear that the other 2 species had to adapt to survive. The ice had started to crack.\n\nThe hunters died from the loss of prey. \nThe gatherers travelled as far north as they could go, retreating with the melting snow, until finally the humans came after them. Whilst they still held weapons of wood the destroyers had birds of steel.\n\nWe found them, negotiated with them and ultimately destroyed them.\n\nFor the first and final time, the gatherers saw the utility of fire."
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[WP] You're summoned to another world, but its not how you would have thought it would go. You are summoned as a fighting monster, slave to a world of alien creatures. You can only communicate to your fellow summoned beasts. You even have a creature description, and it seems your pretty tough.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I was roused from sleep by a bright light and a deep rumbling, a sound that put me in mind of a landslide. I squinted my eyes open, and immediately closed them again. \n\n\"Who turned up the brightness on the sun?\" I grumbled to myself, covering my eyes with a hand. \n\nThere was a shriek, and I heard frantic, or maybe excited, voices around me, speaking in a language I knew, somehow, I would never be able to understand. I stood carefully on wobbly legs, and as I moved I heard some kind of dull scraping, like metal against wood. I looked down and tried again to open my eyes, this time I could make out, through the bright light, my feet on a solid log platform, with some strange metal twisted around my ankles and pinned to the logs with another chunk of metal. \n\nKeeping my eyes slitted, I raised my gaze, and saw I was surrounded by a rough circle of strange creatures. These creatures looked like nothing I'd ever known before. \n\nThey all had exceptionally strange fur, the majority of it being long and black, draping almost to the wood platform, but one was wearing what looked like the same metal clamped around my ankle. Their faces were all furless, except for the one wearing metal. \n\n\"What in the name of the creator. . .\" I whispered, horrified. \"Where am I?\""
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[WP] After being forced to use the power of mind control in front of a spouse, there is only one chance to explain the truth: there was never any mind control in the relationship.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"Dude, what do you mean you are getting divorced?\"\nMy friend from college almost shouted in my ear.\n\n\"Well.. yea... she found out.\"\n\nHis face just became pale.\n\n\"It's ok.\"\n\n\n.\n.\n.\n\n\nWhen my wife had an old stalker showed up, and had gun pointed at her head. I used my power infront of her for the first time. Forced him to kill himself.\n\nFirst she was shocked that I killed him, then she realized it was a mind control, then she realized that she used to hate me.\n\n\"How.... What??\"\n\n\"Listen. If I wanted to use any of my power on you, I would have used it when you couldnt decide what topping you wanted on your pizza for the last 30 min, or the time you couldnt decide what shade of red you wanted for your bra.\"\n\n\nFor some reason.. I don't think it's my power that caused the divorce.."
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[WP] you are a survivor of The Tilt, an unexplained disaster in which gravity suddenly changed from pulling straight down to pulling at a 30 degree angle
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The irony is that I was doing one of the most dangerous things possible. I left the campsite around 5:30AM so I could free climb a 140 foot cliff near the river before the rest of my crew woke up. I was alone. No equipment except a bag of chalk I carried around my waist. \n\nI was about 120 feet up, almost at the top, when the climb felt a whole lot easier. Not quite a nice gentle incline, but I also didn’t feel like I needed to hold on quite as tight. I had a slight sense of vertigo, not something I usually feel, and stopped. I’m lucky I did. If I had reached the top without realizing the Tilt had occurred and thrown myself over, I’d have crashed into some trees or slipped right off the other side. Instead, after regaining my sense of balance, I looked down and saw the river had crashed against the side of the cliff. \n\nI worked my way down to a ledge around the 100 foot mark and that’s when I realized I couldn’t stand up straight. I was pressed into the cliffside. \n\nDays later, I learned how people died almost instantly as their furniture fell on them. Some never woke up as they were simply tossed from bed. Others were thrown into the street or into walls. Buildings around the world fell as they were unable to handle the weight. I never got over the fact that the safest place to be was climbing without ropes. But I’m bothered by the fact that if I had climbed the opposite wall, I’d have been flung to my death instantly."
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[WP] Turns out that Death doesn't actually mind people becoming immortal... as long as they do it right. No, it's when they fuck it up and cause disastrous consequences for themselves and everyone nearby - causing lots of extra work for Death in the process - that Death gets pissed.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I scowled down at the paper work on my desk. “THAT SON OF A BITCH!” I willed to paper to incinerate before me. Another bastard who I gave immortality f/cked it up. I picked up my phone. “GET 947 DOWN HERE. WE GOT A CODE GRAY. I REPEAT, CODE DORIAN GRAY.” The flames in the fireplace whipped and curled into the shape of a man. He was somewhat pudgy, looked about mid 50’s, with a receding hairline. He looked shocked to be here. I stormed across the room, willing dark chains to fly up, ensnaring him by the arms, legs and neck. He gasped. I snarled. “We had a deal Mason! You get the serum of immortality, but no stupid shit! I gave you a contract!“ He gulped, but spoke. “I- I just thought if I shared some with my wife-“ I interrupted. “THAT COUNTS AS STUPID SHIT, ASSHOLE! DID YOU EVEN READ ONE PAGE OF THE F/CKING CONTRACT!?” He went pale, but said nothing. I glared. “Maybe some time in HELL will teach you a lesson.” I reached for the phone. Mason spoke up. “H-hey! HEY! Y-you can’t do this to me! How is this my fault? You probably want‘d me to die! Y-yeah! Everyone knows you don’t honor your deals! You want out souls no matter what! You want us to die! I set down the phone. I slowly walked back over. “Oh no Mason, I don’t mind making people immortal. It’s really no problem. It makes my job easier to. Collecting souls is quite a hassle. The problem is, IDIOTS like you, just don’t seem to honor our agreements. You try to bend the rules. Change the terms set. Well Mason, let me tell you something: You. Can‘t. Cheat. Death.” I picked up the phone once more. Mason cried out, pleading. “W-WAIT! NO! PLEASE! SEND ME BACK!“ I smiled, and dialed the phone number. “Now Mason, we want people to be wary of breaking the rules. What kind of example would letting you off the hook set?“ I finished dialing, and spoke. “Hi, I need a pick up in my office. Ok, thank you. I waved as the floor opened slowly into a gaping caVern lit by flames at the bottom. Skeletal hands reached from its depths. “Bye Mason. Have a nice day!” The obsidian floor finally sealed itself. I sighed, and went back to the paperwork. Some people never learn.",
"The wind was quiet this night in the valley, naught but a breeze drifting through the boughs of the trees. The grass whispered in the yard, swaying gently in the caresses of the sweet mountain air. The full moon lingered over the peaks, casting long shadows from the barn and farmhouse. \n\nDeath stepped quietly from the shadows, cloaked in oily black robes. It surveyed the night grimly from empty sockets, searching for the source of it's vexation. An extra journey to the mortal realm was unusual but there was an issue in need of addressing this eve. A soul not in need of guidance to the afterlife.\n\nThe barn doors, barred, may have stopped a mortal. Silently, Death slipped between the pinewood portal. The interior glowed softly in the dim orange candlelight, leaving the loft and corners in darkness. The center of the floor was swept clear of hay and dust, marred only by the chalk lines and wax spots that had drawn the reaper from the other side. Symbols, both alchemical and magical spiraled outward from the prone form, invoking Death's name in almost every conceivable interpretation. The reaper fixed it's empty stare on the creature for a moment, concentrating on the lifeline to which it was affixed, unseen by mortal eyes. Reaching in the sleeve of it's cloak, it produced a small timekeeper. The device shifted constantly, checking the mortal's lifespan. No matter the form, it had halted. The sand did not flow, nor did the hands tick, nor did the circuits fire. \n\nDeath regarded the mortal again, returning the timekeeper to it's place. The twinge on it's essence drew forth rare emotion. Anger? Annoyance? It was hard to tell without time reflect. \n\n\"Fool,\" Death rasped to the sleeping man. \"You have tethered yourself to us, and in so doing upset the delicate balance we so tirelessly maintain.\" \n\nEven now, Death could feel the clutch of souls awaiting it's guidance. Gaggles of creatures awaiting it's attention, begging for it to ferry them to the other side. The ferryman's normal dominion over their existence was hazy, lagging behind the sharp efficiency under which it usually operated. All because of this... selfish, stupid man.\n\nThe sword slithered from within the robes, twisted, shining, and cruel. \n\n\"We are bound not to reap that which is not yet ready,\" the inevitable guide began. \"But we shall take from you, as you have taken from us.\"\n\nThe tip of the blade rested gently on the gently heaving chest of the newly minted immortal. His breathing slowed, and his body seemed to sink into the boards beneath, coming to an even deeper level of rest.\n\n\"You shall not die, nor shall you wake.\" The reaper turned it's gristly visage away from the thief. \"You shall not wake... Until we have taken all that you hold dear from this world.\"\n\nThe sword dissolved into the night, and the robes whirled silently, carrying Death along to it's work.",
"\"I told you mortal: no war. No armies. No weapons of mass destruction.\"\n\nDeath stood in the middle of a smoking crater, addressing a naked man. \n\n\"Errr, Death, I'm immortal.\"\n\n\"You still act as a foolish mortal. 1000 years of wisdom amount to nothing.\"\n\n\"It was only a small tactical nuke.\"\n\n\"Yet it killed 427 people before their time. These records all have to be adjusted, soul storage requested. It is quite bothersome.\"\n\n\"You do you old chap.\"\n\n\"May I remind you beings outside of normal life span such as yourself have certain obligations. Obligations you ignored.\"\n\n\"Where is the fun in that?\"\n\n\"Indeed. Let me educate you.\" \n\nDeath walked a short distance and cut a concrete pillar in two. The overstressed building lost the one thing holding it up and toppled over, right on top of the naked man.\n\nSeconds after death disappeared, rescue workers arrived at the scene, checked their geiger counter and turned back. No point in checking for victims if they're already death from radiation.\n\nLater on, a sarcophagus would be built there to keep the radioactivity back for the next millennium while death enjoyed one less meddling factor.",
"You know it was my fault to believe that all creatures can respect the unspoken morals of death, or in this case cheating it. People becoming immortal and living through centuries peacefully prove to me that it is possible to not wish death and destruction on Earth or to rub their agelessness in the faces of the expiring. Somehow, I still always let myself become surprised. I’ve met and worked alongside with covens of witches who use their immortality to increase the positive vibrational energy of the earth, and parents who researched endlessly to save their child from human illnesses. While those warm my deadly heart, today I am dealing with the worst case scenario. \n\n“Karen we don’t carry that product anymore, and your coupon is expired by a month.” The poor small human with a brightest fake smile addressed the woman with poofy short hair. \n\n“I’m not leaving until you give me what I want!” Although her voice was calm, I would not be here if I did not think this was a nonviolent interaction. \n\nKaren pulled the gun from her giant counterfeit louis Viton bag. The girl screamed. “GET ME THE GODDAMN MANAGER.” \n\nI rolled my eyes. This woman Karen decides to become an immortal and abuses her power for something as stupid as a coupon. I can’t believe that the divine beings in the universe wasted their time giving free will to such gluttonous creatures. I waited patiently until Karen did as expected and brutally murdered the store clerk. Now here I am standing alongside the woman with her glasses fiercely angled down her nose. \n\n“What are you?” She had the audacity to be enraged. I really need to keep a more careful eye on these humans. \n\n“I’m death Karen, and instead of walking this poor girl to the other side. I’m reprimanding you for your recklessness.” The girl’s soul stood next to me crying. “You’re a disgrace.” \n\n“Excuse me, you will not disrespect me!” She crossed her arms scrutinizing me.\n\n“Will you shut up? God, I’m just trying to do my job. I turn a blind eye to all those rituals you humans do to stop death and now I have to cleanup your stupid messes.” I patted the girls back and walked away to guide her toward the bright light.”\n\n“I want to speak with God about your behavior.” Annoyed, I groaned turning around and facing the woman who smelled of hair spray. \n\n“Karen you killed a woman over a coupon! God is not going to look at you with kind eyes.” Suddenly, I got an idea. “In fact, I know someone better you should meet.” \n\nOn command my good friend the devil showed up. “Jesus Christ Death, why the hell do you keep letting these humans become immortals?” \n\n“You know what dude, You only show up when the bad ones get a little too crazy.” I said gesturing to the crazy woman covered in blood spatters.\n\n“Let me guess,” The devil looked at her. “Your name is Karen right?” \n\nShe nodded fearfully. \n\n“This is the third one this year Death, stop letting the Karens become immortals please. The Karen level of hell is getting full and I can’t keep doing this for you.” \n\n“Alright Satan, god I’m trying my best.” I turned around and took the poor girl’s hand and smiled. “Let’s get going toward heaven sweetheart.”",
"Hank was sitting on top of the roof. Beneath him, there were the bodies of the criminals he just murdered. All of them looked so helpless and pathetic, he wondered how could they have ever posed a threat to the people of this city. \n\nMy city, Hank realized as he had become the savior of Hillstone City.\n\nThe power that came to him two weeks ago allowed Hank to create justice in the world. Those people had lost their right to live. They deserved no mercy. Hank had learned that when one criminal murdered his brother in front of him. If they showed no mercy, why should he? \n\nHank started to get up to leave when a black portal appeared in front of him. Hank smiled. It was probably a supernatural being wanting to congratulate him for making the planet cleaner than it had been before.\n\nA man with a robe and a scythe appeared in front of him. Hank was surprised to see the angry face of the new man instead of a grin.\n\n\"Who are you?\" Hank asked confused. \n\nSurely, the new man is thinking that Hank is a criminal and not the savior. It would be an understandable mistake, because of all the dead bodies. But once he explains it all, it will make sense.\n\n\"I am Death, the person who has to maintain balance in the world. And people like you make my work a mess,\" Death raised his voice at that last sentence, a red fire surrounding him.\n\n\"You must be confused, I just cleaned this place of criminals.\"\n\n\"I know you murdered all of them, you filthy rat. You are just like them.\"\n\n\"Just like them?! I am not like them! I just gave those criminals what they deserved! They should have been dead for longer! But you allowed them to live.\" Hank realized that part when he thought that the man in front of him was Death. He could have removed the errors in the planet, all those bloodthirsty criminals in one movement. But he did not. And that only made Hank mad.\n\n\"I have a balance to maintain. Honestly, I don't care who dies and who lives. I care that there are no more dead people than needed. I have to find more reapers to help me out, and that disturbs balance. You immortal bastards think you are the best that has ever happened. But in the end, you're no better than spoiled children.\"\n\nWhile Death spoke, his scyhte started to glow. Red chains trapped Hank's legs. He tried to make them disappear, but could not do that.\n\n\"What are you doing?\" Hank screamed as he feared for his life.\n\n\"Condemming you to a fate worse than death.\"\n\nHank wanted to escape the red lightning bolt that came at him. If he could, he would have run far away. But he was unable to do so. A blast of power hit him right in the chest.\n\nHank felt how he started to leave his body, the process was painful. He screamed without stopping to breathe, mostly because he did not need to anymore. The procedure continued for a few minutes, until his body fell to the ground. Hank could see it fall, not to the ground but to a portal that was full of fire.\n\nDeath sent Hank's soul to a small glass container. He would study that soul for eternity, to find out why he was immortal. And the process would be painful.\n\n\"Sir,\" a young reaper appeared. \"Are you alright?\"\n\n\"Yes, just slightly pissed. He did not wipe a city, like the last one. But still, he thought he was a god. Now, go, clean up those souls before we have them roaming free around the city.\"\n\n\"Yes, sir.\"\n\nDeath smiled at the container before returning to his realm.",
"“DAMMIT!” Death yelled slamming his fist against his desk sending a shockwave that scattered everything in his office and crumbled the desk into dust.\n\n“Not again, Not again!!” Death continued to yell angrily. “Why..why do they have free will..why do they always have to be selfish and disrupt the delicate balance I’ve worked SO hard to cultivate....ahhhh..dammit all” Death yelled and sank back into his seat. His dark robes billowed around him and his skull face was in a sinister scowl. \n\n“Another damn immortal” Death muttered while slamming the hilt of his great Scythe on the ground. The impact released droves of newly reaped souls in a blinding flash of light that floated above Death before being sucked into floating crystal vials.\n\n“Store these in the Vault, and take soul #9414DE578998D to the viewing room, I want to examine that one later” Death ordered to an intern reaper who hastily grabbed the vials and, scurried away from a very angry Death as fast as he could.\n\nDeath sighed. “Now what?” he said in deep thought. The immortals were relatively new on the cosmic scale. Only been around the last 100,000 years or so but, they were a handful. \n\n“How do I perform reaper duties on a immortal soul?” Death mused angrily. “Every time one of them would “die” via their own brazenness due to lack or fear and common sense, I would show up and the immortal soul would flick me off and jump back in the body and restore life” Death grumbled still in deep thought\n\nDeaths’ counter-part Life was as equally confused. As far as Life was concerned, she never gave rise to this anomaly as it was beyond her power to do so. Both Life and Death were in uncharted territory. Wherever the Immortals came from Death hoped they’d soon fizzle out of existence somehow within the next few eons.\n\nThe best death could do was meet each of the immortals in person and explain the importance of balance. The most important rule: DO NOT let a human know about your immortality. The majority of the Immortals were understanding but, there was always a problem few every once in awhile.\n\nDeath’s office was a mess and his carefully organized files of readings dating back eons were in disarray but there was no time to dwell on that. Death grabbed his scythe and looked out into the cosmos. \n\n“This immortal broke the number one rule” Death thought as watched through the cosmos. This immortal preformed a live death to an audience of 100 people and on film. The immortal shot himself in the head on camera in front of crowd, “died” and came back to life. The humans were in uproar. Scared beyond belief but also in equal wonderment of this “miracle”. \n\n“This immortal shatters the balance” Death growled. His robes billowed fiercely around him and the Great Scythe started to glow. “How many humans will try to emulate this madman but, only end up killing them selves” Death continued to say steadily growing angrier \n\nDeath gripped his scythe tightly and flames erupted around the blade. Death never used his scythe on a being who was alive. \n\nThe cosmic weapon was only meant to reap a soul. “Not today” Death thought. “Today I will come for you and we will put that immortality to the test” \n\n\nFeedback please"
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[WP] You get a notification on your phone that you were about to step in wet cement. A few more steps of walking, and you step right into wet cement. Realizing what's happening, you clean off your shoe as you await your phone's next prediction...
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I'm gonna be honest. Completely honest. I did not expect the app I downloaded to be real.\n\nYou can sympathise, right? 'FutureSight: The Then is Now'. Sounds like some bullshit stock prediction service, right? I downloaded it *not* because I thought it would work, but because I thought it wouldn't. It's how these things go with me: astrology, homeopathy, and so on. Go out of my way to search for 'em, because I find it funny if I see through 'em. Magic shows might be a more understandable example.\n\nBut that's a side note. I shouldn't get sidetracked.\n\nFirst thing that happened after I stepped in that wet cement was me getting annoyed. 'Cause, you know, my shoe was covered in wet cement. Not pleasant. But it got sorted out pretty quickly, because I'm not one to hold grudges for stuff that's my fault. Continued to head home from work, set my shoe aside to sort out later, and took a closer look at the app.\n\nI was still the only one to have downloaded it, which was interesting. Usually even the crappiest apps had a bot going around, or review bombers. When I opened it up, it gave me a timer. 'Next prediction in 00:01:31:02'. Artificial timers like that gave me a vibe that this was a scam that'd gotten lucky, but why back out now? It would give me time to do some theorycrafting.\n\nThe thing had warned me - told me, really - that I'd step in concrete. Why would it tell me that in particular? Thinking back, that was the prediction that would have interested me most for that time frame. If it had told me that breaking news was going to occur, I would dismiss it as someone on site. If it told me that a stock was gonna rise, I'd dismiss it as another money-grabbing app. Anything more general than the concrete, or anything more specific, woulda been something I'd have glossed over and forgotten about. So maybe the predictions optimised for their ability to be remembered - presuming they were real.\n\nAn easy way to test this, if I was right. I picked out a jar from my recycling pile (I hadn't sorted it out in a while, alright?). Filled it with a couple of dozen strips of paper, each with a number on. Folded, and shaken. I made a commitment to take out a strip of paper, no matter what happened. Parents call? Call 'em back later. Work deadline? No matter. It'd hurt, but one deadline missed wasn't too bad on my record. I was gonna pick a strip of paper and read it, and the app was gonna give me a prediction if all went well.\n\nTime passed. I read a book. Not interesting, but it kept me going. Eventually, my phone buzzed. 'You're about to pull a number from the jar'.\n\nI pulled it, of course. 28. That didn't make me much happier.\n\nThe most likely scenario at this point was that someone was stalking me. I didn't know how they were doing it, but it was the most plausible scenario. If it was the case, then the next thing I'd have to try was to make 'em slip up. I had to get the phone to predict something that I could force to be wrong.\n\nAt that point, it buzzed again. 'You're about to pull a 46 from the jar'.\n\nWell. It had given men my opportunity. Now to take it.\n\nI sat there, and did nothing. Phone's prediction couldn't be right if I didn't take a number from the jar. In fact, I could force it out of a null state, and straight into wrong territory. A grabbed a loose strip of paper, and wrote '58008' on it. Sue me, I like a little humour in my life. I stuck it in the jar, kept a firm grip on it, and took it out again. Opened it up, and what do I see?\n\n'46'\n\nI'm a little freaked at this point.\n\nOpen up the app. The next prediction is in seconds. Alright, do or die time. I open up a stock ticker. If the app tells me I'm gonna make a loss, I deliberately do so. If it tells me I'm gonna get a win, I buy. That's an abstraction, but so's this story. I had a decision tree in my head, is all I'm saying.\n\nPhone buzzes.\n\n'You're about to make a grave mistake'\n\nMy phone, then, started ringing."
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[WP] You had always believed in everything science and nothing else. That is until you joined a mining company and found a hole leading to another dimension.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"...What.\"\n\n\"Can't 'splain it any better than y'all,\" the crusty old miner muttered. \"Jus' cracked open some o' that rock an' a dadgum light show opened up! Lucky nobody fell in,\" he added.\n\n\"And you had Dr. Simmons analyze it, right?\" I asked with a mind running at thirty thousand miles an hour.\n\n\"Eyep,\" the miner nodded. \"She ain't got a clue what kinda energy's comin' out.\"\n\n\"Well, thank you for letting me know, I guess,\" I muttered, already making mental notes of what to take with me to investigate. Half an hour later and I was approaching the site. Dr. Simmons waved me over.\n\n\"Look at these energy signatures!\" she squealed. \"They're completely unlike anything recorded on Earth, and only a few snippets of energy readings from a few nebulae come close to matching them.\"\n\n\"What do you think it means?\" I asked, not really expecting a concrete answer.\n\n\"It means I'm going back down and getting more readings,\" she resolved. \"You want to come?\"\n\n\"Of course, Rebecca,\" I chuckled.\n\nThe next hour or so was spent in blissful data collection. Eventually something began pinging in one of Rebecca's devices and she gasped.\n\n\"These sensors are picking up vaguely familiar energy patterns,\" she murmured. \"This thing leads somewhere with life!\"\n\n\"You're absolutely joking, Rebecca,\" I gawked in disbelief. I walked over to take a look when my foot slipped on a loose rock, I lost my balance, and I fell into whatever the light was.\n\nRebecca grabbed my hand before I could totally fall in. My feet skimmed the surface of the light and it sent a tingling sensation up my spine. Rebecca's grip began slipping and she grimaced. I had no time to say anything before she jumped in with reckless abandon, dragging me with her.\n\nPart 2 coming later when I'm not on my phone."
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[WP] Your clothes don’t fit, your shoes are loose. You’re not sure what happened, but everything seems off today.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"# Another Monday\n\nFit off \nsplit loss \nshoes loose \nbut old boots \na tired warning \nmorning blues \nit's time to choose.\n\nWork called \nsoon appalled \nanother shift \nmiffed for days \nby low pay \nlay low \nand stay home \nor head in \nto the miserable din?\n\nThoughts whirling \nfingers curling \nbathroom calling \nbile falling \nshoulders shaking \ntemples quaking \nbody praying \ndemons playing \nrepeated sayings \npanic preying.\n\nPulled together \nanother shattered husk \nthe musk of failure \nbeyond the pale \nthe bills in mail \nsale on lives \nthe pain like knives \nprying deep into mind \narrayed in lines \non clean mirror \nthe weekend sinner.\n\nResurrected \ndots connected \nthe bitter depths \ndragged on laboured breaths \nsat on my ass \nall things will pass \nkeys for days \nplay for the lock \npanic blocked \nfor dawning work \nignore the hurt \nskip the foreplay \nanother Monday.\n\n---\n\nWritten as part of my [daily poem series.](https://www.reddit.com/r/The_Crossroads/collection/01172d1f-eed5-4487-9868-0e04941807c5) If you've enjoyed this and would like to read more, why not check out [my sub?](https://www.reddit.com/r/The_Crossroads)\n\nAny and all feedback welcomed."
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[WP] The superheroes teammates had turned their back on them. With nowhere else to go, the hero was shocked to find that the villains were there, ready to comfort them.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Inspiration drawn from the idea of Silver Age Style Superheros and villains trying to deal with edgy murder-happy 90s/2000s ones rising up.\n\n================\n\nThey’d screamed and shouted at him, even thrown things at him. Called him a damn fool because he’d stuck to his principles.\n\nStuck to his principles and the bomb had gone off in the school, all because he refused to kill the Bomber from a distance. He could’ve done it, he was blessed with invulnerability, laser eyes, x ray vision, there could’ve been a number of ways he could’ve done something, even taken a cops rifle and shot him.\n\nBut Justice Man did not kill. He was there to plug the gaps the state couldn’t against super villains, he was there to ensure the scales were balanced, not tilted to an automatic death sentence.\n\nHis team, some he’d worked with for 20 years disagreed. He should’ve compromised, he should’ve killed just this once and ended the Maladjusted Bomber and his reign of terror. But he’d refused.\n\nNow he was alone, sat in a park dedicated to him, on a bench staring up at his own statue that had also been defaced.\n\n“It is time for you to face Justice, Justice Man!” The gruff voice said before a bullwhip cracked passed him.\n\nHe sighed and continued staring up at the statue.\n\n“Maurader, knock it off. I think he’s really not right.” A female voice said.\n\nThe figure that appeared forcefully in his vision was a woman in her late 20s with flowing black hair and piercing green eyes, wearing an almost comical barbarian esque outfit. It was all furs done into a bikini style armour with a pointed hat with a small tassle on top. She held a comically large bone club that she leant on and looked to him.\n\nJustice man’s perfectly chiseled jaw cracked open and his vision blurred as the tears began to flow.\n\nHe felt her warmth and the fur embrace him as he sobbed and her soothing voice shushed him gently.\n\n“Maurauder, get the van, we’re going somewhere out of the way.”\n\n“Yeah, I get you Barbarian Babe. This ain’t right.” The gruff voice replied.\n\nThe world had gone by in a blur for Justice Man as he continued to cry, there was a bit of a commotion when they got to their destination, a soup kitchen’s rear entrance where there was some surprise, lisping shouting that cut off the moment the voice saw him.\n\nThey headed downstairs, with how Justice Man felt it would be a fitting end, kidnapped by his cadre of evildoers and probably be found in a river somewhere.\n\nInstead he was in a comfy armchair and some pleasant, gentle music played. A multicoloured figure swam briefly into his vision and placed a drink in front of him and encouraged him to drink it. Robotically he picked it up and took a sip before the jolt of the cold and the smoke caused him to blink away his tears and splutter.\n\n“Is that a whiskey soda float?” He peered at the tall glass which indeed has an amber coloured liquid with a blob of vanilla ice cream floating on the top.\n\nThe figure behind the old oaken bar chuckled and giggled as he made another. He wore a jester’s outfit and was in effect a sphere of a man with thick white makeup. \n\n“Itth my thpecialty, what do you think, whoo hoo hoo!” He threw an ice cream over one shoulder and caught it in another glass. “You really looked like you needed one Juthice Man.” The Jester waved the ice cream scoop. “Though I am dithapointed the thpring thnake didn’t go off in your facth.”\n\n“Motley, can I have mine with Strawberry please?” A gruff voice rumbled to Justice Man’s left.\n\nThe hero looked to his left to see the Mad Maurader in comical Viking style garb sat in a similar chair, his massive double headed battleaxe leaning against the wall. The mountain of a man shrugged. “What? I like Strawberry.”\n\nJustice man nodded and took another sip.\n\nA door to the back opened showing a brief sight of a makeup desk with a large mirror and a woman came out wearing a long summer dress, she sighed and rubbed just beneath her chest in discomfort and took her offered drink and sat opposite.\n\n“That fur needs another proper wash, Motley. It’s causing me a rash.” She muttered and took a long drink from her glass.\n\n“Barbarian Babe?” Justice Man Leant forward a little and looked her up and down. “I dont think I’ve seen you look so…“\n\n“Normal? I know.” She smiled. “You didn’t notice me at your last social either Francis.”\n\n“I… don’t know what you mean.” Justice Man stuttered and took a nervous sip from his drink.\n\nA hand was placed on his knee softly and gently, her hands were surprisingly tiny considering her usual weapon of choice.\n\n“Francis, most of us have known your secret identity for years. I used my actual name at your soiree you know, so you can call me by my name too.”\n\nFrancis, Justice Man, sighed. “Ok, Roxanna, where am I? And if you’ve known for years why have none of you exposed me?”\n\n“Becauthe all of our battleth are pageantry, fun and nobody getth killed, of courthe!” Motley said from behind the bar before he came over with two floats, one strawberry.\n\n“Yeah, I mean…” the Mad Mauruder said leaning forward and accepting his drink. “I mean I only use the blade end on you and some of your team cause I know you guys can take it, the rest of the time I use the blunt end. Hurt but no killing.”\n\nThe Motley Fool sat in a chair with a whoopie cushion going off and a giggle. “Yeah, I mean, I only did prankth and bank robberith.”\n\n“To answer your question, this is Motley’s Speak Easy and Soup Kitchen. Free food upstairs for the homeless, free drinks downstairs for us.”\n\n“I just dont get how we’ve done this for years on end and then this guy sweeps in and…” He found his voice catching and he took a drink.\n\n“There’s something just wrong with these new villains man. No honour.” Marauder said. “Too willing to kill to get what they want instead of being clever.”\n\n“Didn’t you once cut an armoured van in two to get a diamond shipment?” Francis said with a quirked eyebrow and a slight smile.\n\n“Do you know how hard it is to figure out where to hit one of those things just right to make them come apart like that?” He patted the axe behind him. “A lot of study went into that one. Especially so it’d fall apart in a way that didn’t kill the crew.”\n\n“See, that’s the problem I had with the Justiceers.” Francis gestured with his drink to the Mauruder. “They said I should’ve just had done with it and kill the Maladjusted Bomber. I’m not a Judge, I uphold the law, not pass judgement.”\n\n“Woah woah woah.” Roxanne said leaning forward again and gesturing with one hand. “They said you should do what?”\n\n“That I should’ve killed him, it would’ve stopped him doing anything worse into the future.” He shook his head. “I can’t. I just… can’t.”\n\nRoxanne’s hand once again on his knee felt reassuring, nice and gentle. He couldn’t believe the number of times that he’d been clocked by that tiny hand and that massive ridiculous bone weapon of hers.\n\n“Not your style man. Not at all” Marauder said and clapped one meaty hand on Justice Man’s shoulder.\n\n“I just dont understand why they became so angry with it. I’m angry too at not stopping him, but kill him?”\n\n“Kidth died, they’re angry and hurting a lot. I mean, Flamebroiled’th got kidth, right?” Motley said.\n\n“Yeah, but what message does it send if superheros begin killing those that get in their way? We’d be no better then.”\n\n“I agree.” Roxanne said.\n\nThere was a phone ringing, playing some popular female tune about love. The Mauruder lifted his viking helmet by one horn and grabbed the phone as it dropped out.\n\n“Marauder… Oh hey Voodoo Vanessa, how’s it… the news? Right now?”"
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[WP] You are summoned to another world. However, you quickly realize that your summoners are a bunch of annoying, entitled, and spoiled do-nothings.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I was born into a world where there was no word for cruelty. You were expected to suffer. It's harsh environment and lack of abundant energy sources meant every inch of life had to fight for its right to survive. Trees grew parasitic roots where would burrow deep into other trees and sap all of their life force. Plants learnt to spread spores that were poisonous and would kill their kin in order to secure their spot in the only sunlight for miles around. The fish in the ocean grew so large that they would have to prey on their own kind as they drove other species to extinction. The land was barren. A waterhole was seen as a battleground rather than salvation. Large reptiles the size of mountains would claim a waterhole all to their selves. The amount of scars on the creature is testament to the amount of lesser creatures it has devoured. This world only knew the strong. Hidden in a deep sealed cave a race of intelligent reptiles came to be. My race. There was a underground in spring in the save to hydrate them and bugs the size of hounds to feed them. Bugs that could kill any Reptilians in one on one combat. Group hunting became necessary. My people stayed in the cave afraid for generations. Dying of brutal wounds, poisonous bites and if they are lucky, hunger. Eventually a earthquake hit than split the cave open. Allowing my people to see the outside world for the first time. There was nothing but dark clouds and dirt covered lands. The save was safer but It was no longer a choice as it was filled in now. To survive on land was their only choice. I was born with one eye, a bad omen. My people were the bottom of the food chain. Our tribe never grew more than 30 people. When I was of age I got tired of seeing my family dig for bugs in the dirt. I ran away from home to find something better. My family were too scared to came after me. I found myself in front of a waterhole. There was a beast in front of me. A unintelligent reptile larger than anything I have ever seen. It's head reached the dark clouds. It's body so riddled in scars. It lowers its head from the cloud and looks at me. It too is missing an eye. It sniffs me once and goes to lie on its back to sleep. What pity. What pathetic pity. I find myself filled with rage but manage to calm myself. I sneak on the beasts chest. It does not notice something so small. I crawl up to its neck and with all my might I drive my blade into its skin and manage to get through. I have to move quickly, I run the entire length of its neck as my sharp blade glides through its skin, blood gushing out behind me. I make it to the other side of its neck as the beast jerks and howls. Soon after its movement stops. Thankfully it was old and skin was fragile. I marvel at what I have achieved. I climb down from its body and take a drink from the body of water. Instantly I am filled with a surge of power. The beasts memories run through me and I experience everything It had. 1000 of years of battle in an Instant. I feel its strength fill my body. So much power. I go a small distance from the water and throw a punch at the ground. A huge shock wave throws me in the air and a crater is made in the ground. It's power is now mine! I can conquer this world and pave a way for my people. I head back to my tribe and tell them the tale of my story. Through my efforts my people start to thrive. No beast could beat me. We start to build towns which turns into a city as population goes up. Through my power I outlive all my family and act as a deity and leader to my people. Hundreds of years later, we find ourselves as the apex predators. One day I am sitting on a throne made by my followers as I am suddenly pulled into another dimension. Is this death? Will I go to where other gods rest? The idea intrigues me! I can see nothing but bright light as I emerge in another world! My vision is starting to come back to me. I am in a room with other creatures. Other gods maybe. The room however, is not as grand as my throne room back home. I have never seen creatures like this. There are three of them. They have no scales and only hair on their head. What is this on the table? Mountain dew? An elixir of the gods!\n\n\"Hello fellow Gods, I am honored to be in your presence!\" I exclaim\n\n\"Woaah bro it worked! Lizard maaaaaaan!\" One of the god screams out\n\n\"Right on brother! right on! Lizard maaaaaaan!\" Another shouts\n\n\"See fellas just a easy one two spell a few and bam, Lizard maaaaaan!\" The last one shouts\n\n\"Why have you summoned me. Are you needing of my power?\"\n\n\"Hell yeah lizard bro, as you can see we are all pretty laid back in these bean bags here and I put the Nintendo switch on the TV last time but these two guys won' stop arguing about who has to plug in the PS4, so we summoned you lizard man.\" The shirtless one says\n\n\"PS4? I do not understand?\" I ask\n\n\"Hey man, you just gotta take that PS4 and plug in all the cords.\" The bald one chimes in\n\n\"I am the greatest entity on planet Thilak. I do battle and that alone.\" I respond\n\n\"Listen lizard bro, I summoned you, meaning you gotta do what I say. Ill even transfer the knowledge of how to do it to you.\" The shirtless one says\n\nKnowledge of a device fills through my mind\n\n\"I am a god! The slayer of beasts! Water bringer! The conqueror! I will not plug in a fucking PS4!\" I yell\n\n\"Shi lam bin zam din din bam!\" The shirtless, yet most powerful one yells\n\nI recoil in pain\n\n\"Ah! You animal! Make the torment stop!\" I yell as it was the first time I knew pain.\n\n\"Will you plug it in lizard bro?\" He continues\n\n\"Yes ill plug it in, just leave my mind!\" I beg\n\nThe spell stops. I sluggishly get to my knees and start to untangle all the cords.\n\n\"You could of at least untangled the cords!\" I say\n\n\"Well that't why we summoned you lizard bro.\" One says\n\n\"Bastards.\" I say"
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[WP] Standing at the bottom of the yard next to the neighbor's fence line was a tall, skinny creature with skin the color of the moon.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The night was cold, the chill in the air a constant reminder that the year was now well into October. A new moon was high, the stars were the only light, casting the night in a darkness to match the chill. The only sound was the rustling of leaves, and the swaying of the grass in the wind.\n\nIt was the lack of noise that made me curious at first, normally on a night like you'd hear the sounds of the neighbors cats fighting, or crickets chirping, it felt like the darkness had pushed back any creature that dared to interrupt the whispering winds. So I decided to look out the window, I'd sleep easier if I had just gone to bed and enjoyed the quiet, but something drew me to the window, I think its the same thing that makes me feel like I *need* to write this down, it feels like my thoughts are becoming too large for my own brain and need to be let out.\n\nI walked towards the ground floor window, expecting to see nothing more then my backyard, and a few houses, but there, on the other side of the fence, with grey skin that seemed to faintly reflect the starlight was what I can only describe as a human, with long arms and legs, but a torso that seemed short for a creature this tall, it stood around eight feet tall while slouched, and didn't appear to have a stomach, it was so emaciated that the ribs stuck out and you could see the tops of the hip bones. It wore a ragged wrap, a dirty white piece of cloth, fraying at the edges, one of the long arms held a staff that bent at the top, forming a large upside down L.\n\nI stood staring at it, half in fear, half in fascination, if I hadn't been so fixated on the creature I would have grabbed my phone and taken a picture, but noting could tear me away from that window. Especially after it looked at me. It slowly turned its gaze toward me, its eyes were nothing more then sunken pits, like craters on the surface of the moon. The rest of its face was ancient, like the face of a man who had lived long enough to watch mountains turn to dust as he walked, long forgotten by time. A long wispy beard came off his face, thinning throughout the white hairs hung low off its face, but there wasn't any other hair on its head. It slowly lifted itself over the fence, using the staff for support, it moved with slow deliberate steps, like each step moved a great weight, leaving footprints in the dirt wherever it stepped. As it reached the window where I stood it put one hand on the gutter and slowly lowered itself to one knee and leaned down to look inside at me.\n\n\"Would you do an old man a favor and open the window?\" He asked in a kind old voice that seemed to reverberate throughout my body. I nodded and did as he asked, to surprised by the fact that it was speaking to me to say anything. \"Thank you,\" He said with a kind smile, the voids that made his eyes seemed less intense up close like this, they seemed calmer somehow, more friendly. He sat cross-legged on the grass by the window, he stuck his staff into the ground, the best thing that I can think of to describe it would be a flag pole, six or seven feet tall, with a long thin crossbar on the top, about two feet long, it looked like the end was snapped. \"You're probably wondering what I am and why I'm here, I find myself having to explain who I am more and more every time I come down, it seems you humans are truly forgetting the old ways now...\" he trailed off in thought, closing his eyes to think. As I thought of what to ask I inspected him and noticed that the wrap he wore seemed to have hints of red and blue, though the color only poked through from the inside, most of the fabric seemed to be bleached by the sun. \n\nHe suddenly seemed to catch his train of thought and snapped to attention \"Oh yes, who am I, My mind does wander these days its hard to build the energy to think, the harvest only seems to grow smaller each year. You may call me Moon, though I have been called by many names through the ages, this one will help you understand the fastest, you see in ages long ago when the we were properly honored I would receive offerings on the night of the harvest moon, many would give to me out of thanks for the good harvest. But men can be more forgetful then a planet, I am certain it is in due to Earth protecting you to much, especially given what some of you do to her. Once humans forgot about us we began to weaken, that it is why it has been so long since Pluto, or even Mars has visited, we would once gather here and tell tales of our worlds and watch earths pets and help guide them.\" \n\nThe old Moon now rested both hands on his staff and leaned while still sitting against it, it bent against the weight but held, the Moon closing his eyes and looking relaxed as he began the next part of his story. \"We would show the humans many things, some of helped with planting, some with harvest, Mars would show new ways of fighting, and would wrestle any willing challengers. I would help humans with the harvest, so they would grant me some as a gift in thanks, but men through their means made the help of any one being obsolete, even one with the powers of a small planet. Fortunately for me I did receive some offerings a few years ago, in fact I'm using both now!\" He chuckled and motioned to his wrap and staff, \"Shame the men who came to offer them missed me while they were up there, I had fallen asleep on the dark side to regain some of my energy.\"\n\n\"So, what can I do to help you?\" I asked, finally able to think straight enough to form a question.\n\n\"Well you see I've come down because I needed to talk with Earth about how quiet the others have been I'm worried about them, especially Pluto, we haven't seen them in a *very* long time. But now I need to build the energy to return to the sky, I'd rather not have to use Mars old methods, they involved to much blood for my taste. And you are the first Human that didn't shrink away in terror once you saw my face, so I ask you for help, do you have any food you could spare a hungry planet, it doesn't have to be much, and could you point me towards field to harvest, it would feel good to work a field again.\n\n\"I think the closest field is to the west of here, but I'm happy to grab you some apples and look up some directions for you.\" I said, deciding that this was probably just a vivid dream, that if I just played along the dream would continue and I'd wake up tomorrow and everything would go back to normal. I came back and handed Moon some apples, he thanked me, said that 'West' was enough directions for him, and slowly stood up and walked off, he seemed like he had more energy, munching on an apple as he left sight, stepping into the back alley over the fence and walking west.\n\nI woke up the next morning certain that it had all just been a dream, and I was sure of it until after I had gone outside to check on something I thought I saw through my window, there in the grass just outside my window, looked like an indent where something heavy had sat, and a hole a few inches deep beside it.\n\nI've long thought about whether or not I should be more open about my talk with the Moon, but I have a feeling people will just call me loony, so instead I'll write it here, whether or not you believe me is up to you, but I now leave a little basket of produce in that spot every harvest moon.",
"# Bella Lunar\n\nForm adorned with moon's true glow \nand skin exposed the world to show \na twist of song, a haunting cadence \nbefore you now; the Lunar Maiden.\n\n> \"Mate, \nI'm sure that's \n*like* \ngreat... \nBut I'm skint \ndon't need some \nflashy bint \nscorching the lawn \nit'll draw scorn \ndawning costs \nI can't afford \ncan't take the loss.\"\n\nShe beckons with a slender frame \na flash of heat on cheeks the shame \na gentle smile a sweeping arm \nshe'll stay a while so remain calm.\n\n> \"Dear, you shouldn't \nfear it's such a wonder \nto have a spirit plunder \ndown to our garden \nso pardon me, if I don't see \nthe necessity of moving her on \nit's not polite \nshe's such a sight \nbefore now, you know \njust a few birds \nBlack, Blue \na Collared Dove heard \nonly Great-Tits have shown \nalbeit not like this \nfrom such a gorgeous young miss.\"\n\nEnchanted form and light perfume \nthe flowers grow at once to bloom \nshe makes herself gently at home \na duty to all nature shown.\n\n> \"Alright, then if you put it like that \nwon't be a twat, extend the welcome \nit's great to have her here \nkeep the greenery near \nit's clear her 'blessings of spring' \nare great for us so keep her in \nlights \nmaybe get her some tights? \nTough to explain to the neighbours \nthese days \nthis ain't some weird play \nit's the true descent \nof a godly element.\"\n\nWelcomed then a new fixture \nin the wife's eyes, the world's blessed her \nher one complaint, her husband's nerve \nto set a camera, he's such a perv.\n\n---\n\nWritten as part of my [daily poem series.](https://www.reddit.com/r/The_Crossroads/collection/01172d1f-eed5-4487-9868-0e04941807c5) If you've enjoyed this and would like to read more, why not check out [my sub?](https://www.reddit.com/r/The_Crossroads)\n\nAny and all feedback welcomed."
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[WP] A totally autonomous society has had an apocalypse. Everything is still functioning, but the only thing missing, is people.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The town square had become a sanctuary for many delicate creatures of nature. Bunnies crowded its perimeter and picked from the patches of grass and flowers which germinated generously from the cracks in the concrete. Deer drank delicately from the square’s fountain. An AI officer surveyed the area regularly and determined invariably that, yes, all was well.\n\nA bird nestled its home in the cusp of an O of the dead neon sign of some local vegan restaurant. The restaurant, fully-automated and with built-in AI servers, served continuously to any animal who successfully learned the complex human equation of “press button = food arrives.” Plump ants and other insects crawled slowly yet passionately over all of the AI servers and picked up any scraps.\n\nJust across the street, a fully automated laundromat continuously cycled the same abandoned load of laundry. A family of cats lingered in an alleyway stationed between the laundromat and a flower-shop and preyed sneakily on any nearby rodents. Spiders webbed up entire entryways and windowsills. The square’s fully-automated garden and greenhouse flourished and buzzed with vivacity, AI gardeners in a relentless pattern of planting, picking, and maintaining its flowers and produce--the latter of which was delivered to the local vegan restaurant as well as the grocer. In the grocer, the produce was automatically shelved by another AI, who eager deer and bunnies watched patiently. The deer enjoyed the perfectly-stacked display of apples and aisles of lettuces and the bunnies enjoyed any scraps they could reach. \n\nA local cinema played WALL-E on loop. The deer lay lazily in the cinema room, protected and napping, paying no eye to the movie, a head occasionally lifting and wondering if the grocer was restocked. In the back of the room, a lone AI cinema-worker stood with his hands politely clasped behind his back, after having swept the entirety of any already-spotless cinema. He viewed the movie quietly. After seeing the film over a hundred times, he felt it difficult to ignore the overwhelming feeling of resonation he had felt with the film’s protagonist.\n\nAs the credit’s soon rolled, and the deer remained lounging, the AI worker eyed his broom, and most miraculously, had a thought, that maybe, just maybe, he didn’t have to do this anymore.",
"*Delivery complete* Announced the small delivery droid. It whirred its propellers and lifted off into the tunnel. The street far below bustling with robots and droids of all types, mechanics, cleaners, painters, entertainers, a robot or droid for any need.\n\nIt was good to be a delivery bot, they liked there job quite a bit, it didn't strike the bot as odd that it had used more power forcing the package in the slot, it just reported the extra power use and flew off to pick up its next package and get a nice recharge, maybe some new blades... It did like delivering packages.\n\nThe packages were all piling up, new toilet paper, boxes of cereal, all the basic comforts of life. It didn't strike the cleaner bots as odd when they piled the boxes to the roofs in storage closets, then rooms. It wasn't the job of the robots to think, all they had to do was the simple tasks they had been assigned. The repair-bots kept it all running, when robots wore down they would be fixed, very few robots were dismantled, they only had to be when they took severe damage, like when a human would hit them. But the humans would not strike the delivery droids, the cleaner bots, or any other bot that made there life convenient, all the humans had to do was do sit back while the robots took care of the basic tasks.\n\nIt was hard to notice at first, the air around the repair depots became harder to breath in, the humans assumed this was just because the factories were one of the last large areas of labor, so they we unaccustomed to the thick smells of grease and oil. Slowly the smell spread outward, a slow faint brown smoke slowly lifted into the sky, hard to detect with the naked eye at first, the trails of smoke grew darker and thicker over time, slowly the sky above the factories began to take on a dark orange hue, like a perpetual sunset above the factories, but the smoke did not grow quickly, and the systems all ran properly, no warning signs were given to the repair bots of damage that needed to be fixed. All systems showed that it was simply a byproduct of maintaining the robots that made the humans lives so easy, so the humans just enjoyed the sight, the eternal sunrise above every factory.\n\nAnd the robots continued, they delivered the essentials to the humans, who watched with wonder as slowly, over years, the sunsets above the factories grew, the individual clouds of the factories grew to cover the planet, but the humans were gone before the sky was an eternal sunrise, the rain water that was collected and drank was what they first noticed. They began falling ill with stomach cramps from the water, so they ordered robots to install water filters, and they lived there lives, content to look at the lovely skies, and order whatever they wanted whipped to there door, set on a schedule for some items, that would continue delivering with automatic payment.\n\nThen the humans felt it on there skin, the rain came more often as clouds formed over the factories, as they continued to fix the robots, and give them any upgrades they would need to protect from the rain. It came as a rash, it turned the skin burnt orange, and hurt to touch, so everyone kept an umbrella with them at all times and kept inside when it rained if possible. They ordered the robots to build them covered areas where they could walk outside without fear of rain, and the robots did, they connected all the building roofs and made the streets safe for the humans to walk, if they ever chose to, they made sure to build it high enough to give the flying droids to pass each-other on there endless deliveries. \n\nSo the humans lived with the rain, they wondered what to do about it, but decided that someone smarter them would find a way to fix the rain, until then they would live there simple lives under the covers, in the endless tunnels that now made up the cities, tunnels made of glass that let the humans continue to see the sunset, vents placed regularly to keep air flowing, the humans only wanted to keep out the rain, and that all funneled to the oceans, crossing watermills on the way, giving more power to the robots.\n\nThen the air changed.\n\nThe constant toxins that turned the air into the beautiful sunset became concentrated enough in the air, spread by the falling rain. It burned the humans lungs, slowly. All they felt at the beginning was a tingle in there lungs, like the slight urge to cough, but then it would build, they would start to feel the toxin in there blood, as it began to coarse through there veins and there lungs began to feel hot, as if the friction of the air passing in and out was trying to start a fire inside. And it was too late, by the time the humans realized that the temperature in there lungs would keep rising as they breathed more, they couldn't stop it. They all succumbed to the final step, the toxin in there blood made them feel very sleepy, one by one the humans fell asleep.\n\nThe robots took care of them, it was there job after all, a good bot always does there job. So they tucked in the humans, and, when the humans wouldn't wake up, and the robots could detect no pulse, the robots cremated by default, but where otherwise ordered, buried the humans they served as directed. The robots had trouble keeping up with all the death requests at first, the hit in a large wave, starting with the older population, and anyone who lived close to a factory. The humans authorized the mass grave solution before the last could pass, so the robots could happily dig some very large, very deep holes, and dump the humans and the ashes inside. It was there job after all, and this was very efficient, so they found it extra pleasant, nice of the humans to give the robots the ability to feel joy in all they do.\n\nAnd so the deliveries continued, robots happily buzzing along, the cleaning robots preparing everything, regularly dusting and keeping things immaculate, ready for the next owner. \n\nBut the packages were staring to pile up...",
"The philosophers and wise men of old warned the world of the dangers of such a hedonistic society and the future that laid before them, but so many were inclined to watch and listen as the world died, unknowing of their time running out. The age of oil paid for by blood passed, and with it came the age of consumption. The barren streets were filled, the stomachs sated, but the future came knocking on the door of the present.\n\nHow humanity fell is unimportant. If it was war, then who was responsible? If it was plague and pestilence, where was the source of the rot? Regardless of means, humanity is dead. But their creations linger in a hollow existence.\n\nBefore the world fell silent, it was increasingly commonplace for one to do whatever they wanted without the need to actually do it. Automation became key to construction, and everything circled the process. Factories made materials to make more factories, businesses ran businesses, it was all put in motion by the want of a person and let alone in the aether of consumerism. Tell the world to use, and it will abuse.\n\nBy the end, everything was out of control but cleverly disguised as completely controlled. Architects no longer designed, they simply accepted the changes the machines suggested and went on their merry way. Doctors were in short supply as the machines diagnosed and cured faster than any human ever could. Man was left to themselves and found little to comfort themselves without a purpose. Many were fine with such a fate, but select few fought for meaning until the end.\n\nNow the homes and buildings of the world lay empty, slowly rotting away by the sands of time only to be rebuilt by the automatons of the old age. Packages are routinely delivered based on profiles maintained and observed by the machines only to be abandoned on doorsteps. Mail continues to circulate despite the lack of recipients. The idyllic life of times past is gone but not forgotten.\n\nThe machines don't know that humanity is gone, and if they did, would they care? Their purpose was not necessarily to follow the humans but rather their desires. They may be gone, but their wishes for a better world still stir in the ghost in the machine. They do not serve humanity any longer, but a purpose remains.\n\nPower plants around the world remain cooled and functional. Military armaments and facilities are still manned. The world without life is still lived in.\n\nIt is not a wasteland either. Humanity made a mess of things, that was for certain, but without them, a certain balance was tipped. The waste of countless lives does not flow through the rivers or the seas now that the planet's hosts are gone. The cancer on the land slowly fades with every passing day, and more life is given to the truly abandoned corners of the world.\n\nThe machines go on, never faltering, and plan to do so for ages to come. Metal is the lifeblood of this new world and is to last forevermore."
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[WP] The universe hates time paradoxes. In order to prevent them, it kills off all potential time travelers while in the womb. In your case, however, it took out the wrong twin.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"The universe has always seemed to be against me. Every single day it always seemed like the forces of nature were conspiring against me. My mom's told me an endless amount of stories of near death experiences from back before I can even remember. Screws always managed to be loose in my cribs and nearly toppled over, me with it, whenever I shook the bars. Mom always told me how stressed that made her, but she went to town on improving her craftsmanship. She also always told me stories of how stray dogs, cats, and even a raccoon one time, always seemed to have a thing against me and would nearly attack when she let me play outside. Needless to say I wasn't allowed to play outside much after awhile. Even when I was born it seemed the world tried to kill me. I got hypothermia right out the womb just cause some nurses put me in a bassinet right next to a barely open window. The cold air nearly killed me. Even before that, I was supposed to have an identical twin. He died in the womb, and I always wondered what if it was me instead. Turns out my life just seemed to lead to the answer. I already talked about how I never got outside much on account of how it seemed animals wanted to kill me all the time, and growing up it didn't take too long to notice it for myself. Constant swerving cars and accidents happening around me, a bunch of sketchy people I've had the displeasure of interacting with in stores and cafes that I swear were serial killers, trees that just seemed to fall out of nowhere, the list goes on and on, but I was content staying indoors. I was never particularly interested in what the outside had to offer. Inside I had access to everything I needed. My Mom was always willing to buy me stuff to make up for not going outside, and so I bought books. I began to read science fiction novels day in and day out, all the possibilities of technology. Eventually the stories inspired me to look into real science. I started to learn as much as I could about anything I could. Learning the ins and outs of math and physics. I guess that might not be the most exciting thing in the world, but it was fun for me. I wanted to make my science fiction a reality. So I decided I would do it. Ambitious though it may have been, I decided I wanted to make time travel into a reality. I may have been homeschooled, but my mom was barely the one educating me. I very quickly jumped ahead of any lesson plan she had for me as I rushed to learn as much as I can. If the world was out to get me, I would defy the world and find my own path, and the path I chose was time travel. Yeah. I think in a way I decided on time travel specifically to spite the world. To say it couldn't keep me down, and to aim as high as I possibly could. I studied multiple fields of phsycis, theoretical physics, astrophysics, molecular physics, anything I thought could even remotely help me. It took practically my whole life and near endless more near death experiences and setbacks the universe faced me with, but I had finally found way to both reverse and accelerate the movement of my own molecules. I finally figured out how to time travel. Honestly, I guess you could say I was the most boring person to ever have time travel. Some people might go to see certain famous people, or historical events. Most time I spent travelling around was just witnessing the events of my own life, and that of my mom to see what she was like when she was young. I guess I'm a bit sentimental. I did have one idea though that I eventually did, and it was to go back to the very beginning of time. To the edge of existence itself. I decided to go back as far as I could. And that's where I've been now for millenia, watching it all happen as space and time expands. Turns out that going back to the beginning of time. I'm really not sure what exactly happens. This odd nature of the universe is beyond my comprehension, but I know that it essentially gives you nearly god-like abilities, but more than that, it kicks out the last guy in this place. I'm able to see all of time. I've been able to watch as about five different people, in this same place before me, have occupied this space and used their power over the universe to try to kill any potential time travellers. I watched as the last guy tried to kill me. He killed my brother instead. I guess I was mad at first, but there's nothing I can do about it now. He was trying to kill me, seeing my potential for inventing time travel, but he messed up. He tried again and again, but always failed. I managed to survive. I guess that's what brings me to now though. I've been watching you your whole life and made the same mistakes. I don't know where the other guys who have gotten here have gone when they got pushed out, and I didn't want to find out, but I guess I'm gonna see anyways. You were meant to die by my hand, but you persisted. I'm watching you now, right about to invent time travel for yourself. Once that happens, there's nothing I can do to stop you. You'll get here one way or another. I suppose I thought I would leave this note for you. Something of an explanation. I know that I certainly wanted one when I got here. I still don't know what the purpose behind this is, but I suppose wherever it is I end up next, I'll be working on figuring out. Promise me you'll work on finding those answers on this end too, alright?"
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[WP] Your scale model of a completed Stonehenge is almost complete. As you set the final stone into place a brilliant pillar of light fills the ring and an unearthly voice full of joy cries out. "Merlin! You finally came back!"
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"It had taken me the better part of two years to recreate in miniature the mass of stones that was one of the oldest surviving relics of the time. China didn’t build its wall until four and a half thousand years later, and even the Egyptians were about six centuries behind Stonehenge.\n\nI’d have done it a lot quicker if I wasn’t so committed to my family and my job. The latter one was turning more into a crux than actual commitment on my part. I thought it would be fun to watch people lose their collective minds over magic that couldn’t be explained. And it was, for a while. But now that my granddaughter is of school age and my daughter is finally back on speaking terms with me, I’ve been thinking about retiring again.\n\n(Personally, I still don’t think our earlier fallout was my fault. Darlene was the one who thought she could get married on the other side of the country and have a family without me finding out about it. Really? I mean, I might not have necessarily picked the geeky office-clown she chose to settle down with, but as if *my* little girl could ever get married *anywhere* on this mudball of a planet without me being there to witness it.\n\nLet alone that two years later when she, in turn, would have a daughter and still believe I wouldn't find out about it or be there at the birth. I gave her plenty of time to write or call or let me know the situation. And when she refused, I took it upon myself to introduce Katlin to our side of the family when she turned four. And Kitty Cat loved being with us because we were what was missing in her life. See? Not my fault.)\n\nAnother reason it had taken so long was, I was being watched. Call it paranoia, but I know when the family is starting to close ranks around me in concern. I’ve seen it happen to others. Family members that haven’t spoken to me in years choosing random times and places to serendipitously *bump* into me and ask me how I’m going. They think they’re being subtle. The thing about my family is … they’re about as subtle as an exploding sun.\n\nBesides, they had nothing to worry about. It wasn’t as if I was an unknown commodity in the world. My movements were followed. I had groupies. People flew in from everywhere to watch my shows. Even magicians who were famous in their own right looked to me as their master.\n\nIf only they knew.\n\nBut, in recent time, I found myself thinking about the past. How things could have been different. How I could have done them differently.\n\nI wasn’t interested in recreating Stone Henge as it stood now. What would be the point of that? It was broken. Decrepit. Not to mention a huge tourist attraction. My cousin would get upset if I messed with it after all this time.\n\nNo, better to start over. Go back to my roots. Imbrue things on a smaller scale the way I had back then, drawing more on myself than the ley lines that I’d used in the world because I was lazy. But each stone had to be shaped. Each angle had to be the way it was before time had murdered it.\n\nActually, that one I will put up my hand for. Time may have fucked it, but I could’ve done more to maintain it, had I cared.\n\nAnd now, the last piece. The trigger. I cut my fingers and allowed my blood to soak into the final stone, then placed it across the head of fifth and sixth one. The blood seeped and spread across the ring of stones, then shot up in a pillar of light.\n\n“Merlin, you finally came back!”\n\nMy jaw hit the ground, but not for the reasons one would think. “You felt the passage of time?” I asked the face that appeared in the image. I knew the magic had degraded, but I hadn’t realised to this degree. I leaned forward to bring our faces closer together.\n\nThe tiny fairy with translucent wings and an outfit of withered flowers flew closer to me. “I don’t like it in here anymore, Merlin. You took too long this time.”\n\n“Oh, Cami,” I groaned, reaching through the opening until she landed on my outstretched hand. “I'm so sorry.”\n\nI brought her through the veil into my living room. She flittered from one piece of furniture to the next. “What is this place?”\n\n“It’s my home, Cami. We’re a long way from the British Isles now.”\n\nI placed my hands together, and when they parted, a small dress made entirely of greenery and tiny dots of flowers for colour was in my palm. She flew straight into my palm and gathered up the dress. “No peeking, Merlin,” she said and ducked behind the kettle.\n\n“Cami, I swear on the Twin Notes of all creation, you were never supposed to feel a second of time in there while I was away.”\n\n“Then why did I?” she asked, tossing the scrapped dress out on to the floor with a strength her kind was known for.\n\n“Because the magic broke down, and I didn’t check it often enough.” My family were not the type to dodge blame. If it was our fault, we called it.\n\nShe rose above the kettle, the same beautiful little fae that I had befriended so long ago. The same fae who begged me to hide her from an abusive husband back when I’d been briefly visiting my cousin and came upon her in her native homeland.\n\nI hid her in a pocket dimension. But her kind lived for thousands of years, so she had never really been safe from Cleon until now. In fact, the last time I checked on her, he was an old fairy, but he was still looking for his runaway bride. Many others had taken her place in his bed, but the one that got away was never far from his mind. He offered rewards, then threats … like either would move someone like me.\n\nWhen I closed the portal last time, the magic must have failed, for she felt the movement of time. “Your husband is no more, and your family believes you must be dead. You are free to do and be whatever you like, sweet Cami.”\n\nShe looked at me, then grew into her human size, taking the dress I crafted for her with her. The tiny dots of colour shifting into full-size roses. “May I stay here?” she asked.\n\nI smiled at her. We had, after all, been friends. “Of course. However, there is one thing you should know, Cami.”\n\n“What’s that?”\n\n“My name was never Merlin.”\n\nShe tilted her head to one side. “Then what is it?”\n\n“Strahan.”\n\n***((AUTHOR'S NOTE: This WP follows loosely on to another I did some time ago, and although I feel it stands alone, the earlier one can be found*** [here.](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/comments/fdm1wn/wp_your_daughter_had_once_told_you_that_she_was_a/fjiwm38/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x)***))***\n\n((All comments welcome))\n\n***For more of my work including WPs:*** [r/Angel466](https://www.reddit.com/r/Angel466/)"
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[WP] People have been singing 'Rain Rain Go Away' for years, but one day by chance you sing it correctly, and it does go away. It does not return.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"“Rain, Rain, please come again”\n\n\n\nThe words seem almost stuck to my lips. As tears dribble from my face, onto ground untouched by moisture for god knows how many weeks. Has it been weeks, months, maybe years now since that day. I don’t even remember the exact rhyme anymore. Just the echoes of laughter from the children at the campsite. It is the only memory I have left, the one burned across my very soul. If only we’d known the outcome of our rendition.\n\n\n\n“Rain, Rain, please come again.\n\nPlease come again, right away.” \n\n\n\nWe can not wait for later, we need it now. The aquifers are bone dry while the ocean swells continue to rise. Our towns now under the oceans dominion, as saline's rule has become unquestioned. We hide from it’s wrath in dwindling enclaves, high in the mountains. The sacred ice of these peaks, now a myth from our past, bears no witness to the brutality we have now reached.\n\n\n\n“Rain, Rain, please come again.\n\nPlease come again, right away.\n\nFor if they knew that it was me.”\n\n\n\nI can not think on it for long, I don’t think any of us can, it is just the way of our parched planet. First we went for the vegetation, stockpiled and rationed, while we still had hope for rain’s return. As those faded, along with the fish, we took to animals, but not for their meat. Once those too were exhausted, so was our hope, and we turned to each other to keep humanity a float. It was an honor, a privilege, a grand sacrifice, or at least that’s what we told the old and inferm. The willing were few, and thus our true nature came forth. Turning pulping into a lottery, and for some, a sport. So I sit here rocking back and for, as I choke back tears and the only words still rattling through my dehydrated throat. \n\n\n\n“Rain, Rain, please come again.\n\nPlease come again, right away.\n\nFor if they knew that it was me.\n\nI would never again see the light of day.”",
"I checked the kitchen. \n\nI checked the basement.\n\nAll of the bathrooms, the living room, my sister's room.\n\nThe coast was clear. I loved to sing, but was shy about my voice. Those who heard me always told me that I was amazing and while I really did believe them, I couldn't help but be bashful. But everyone in the entire house had left for one reason or another. I decided to use my go-to for a vocal warm up: Rain, Rain, Go Away. It just so happened to be appropriate today; the sky was a pastel of gray and the silence of the suburban dwelling was accompanied only by the sound of the gentle drizzle against the large window in the entryway. I loved to sing there, as the ceiling was high and the acoustics were phenomenal. I cleared my throat and began. The necessity of the warm up was immediately apparent as my voice cracked upon the first word of the old nursery rhyme. I again cleared my throat and swallowed once before beginning.\n\n*Ahem*\n\n\"Rain, rain, go away... Come again, another day...\"\n\nThe acoustics, amazing as they usually were, seemed to be on a whole other level today. My voice carried, echoed, and resonated in a way that impressed even me. The final note carried long after I'd finished, hanging in the air like a phantom- and then silence. Nothing. I looked up at the large entryway window and saw that the rain had stopped. \"Huh,\" I said out lout to nobody in particular. I smiled and made a mental note to tell the family later before closing my eyes and taking a deep breath. However when I opened them I couldn't help but gasp. I was no longer in my home. I stood atop what looked like a rain cloud. It was soft beneath my feet, and I felt as if I were suspended in a hot mist like the kind leftover after a hot shower. The smell of rain washed over me as a few rays of sunlight punctured the fog around me. \n\n\"You wound me,\" came a voice from all around me. \n\nI looked around in vain- I couldn't see much further than a few feet in front of me. \n\n\"Who's... Who's there?\" I responded sheepishly. \n\n\"Aria... My child...\" Came the voice again. It's voice seemed somehow familiar. I wasn't afraid of it.\n\n\"Aria...\" It spoke once more, its voice hanging in the mists after each spoken word.\n\n\"Aria... Oracle lost to time... May you find the strength to forgive yourself...\"\n\nI couldn't bring myself to speak. The voice was so beautiful, yet so somber. \n\n\"Aria... You must harness your gift... Less mankind turn to dust... I cannot stay... Your word is absolute...\"\n\nI couldn't believe what was happening. Had I fallen unconscious somehow? Was I dead?\n\n\"Aria... Oh my sweet Aria... You must prevail... Call to me... Call to me with your melody...\"\n\nI was once again in my entryway. The echoes of my song dissipated in the air. I opened the front door to see a cloudless sky, and confused neighbors looking up into the heavens. I felt a chill run down my spine. What had I done?\n\n- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -\n\nI get a 15 minute break at work aside from my usual lunch break. I pick a prompt, spend a couple of minutes storyboarding, and then do as much as I can within the confines of my break. If you enjoyed this, consider following me!",
"1460 days. \n\nFour years. \n\n48months.\n\n35039...no, 35040 hours. \n\n\nI couldn't have known that singing a centuries old nursery time could have caused The Plague of Bones, but I'm still the scapegoat, and to be honest, I can't blame them. \n\n\n38 months in a cell. \n\n48 months since I sang. \n\nHappy four years since the end of the world. \n\n\nThe Plague of Bones might sound a little over-the-top to an outsider, someone unfamiliar to the situation, but let me explain. Two weeks after the word's had expelled from my mouth, after I looked into my daughter's eyes and sang those words that would send the world into spiralling chaos, in a little town called Mallahay, Brazil, a man called Luiz Santino was the first known victim of the Ever-Drought. Within four weeks, over fifty thousand victims had succumb as water supplies quickly began to disappear, and, like all good end of the world scenarios, the world began to sink into disarray.\n\n\nThe Western World was surprisingly quick to falter, partly because of a slow response from government parties and a rise in religious fanaticism. As crops died and more cities suffered huge losses, many countries stopped collecting bodies, leaving victims to rot in their homes and in the streets, thus earning it the name 'the Plague of Bones'.\n\n\nWithin six months, almost all natural life had shifted off the mortal coil, the drought was too much for many none-Western Countries, especially those that relied almost entirely on rainwater to survive. Africa, for example, very quickly became a deadzone. All known life, animal, human, plant, quickly ceased to exist. \n\n\nAs for the rest of the world, their time was spent between two missions; finding a way to survive without the rain, and working towards bringing it back again. Sea water, something that always seemed so large and infinite was harvested, and, without the rain, by the third year the world's oceans were almost dried up. \n\n\nReligious fanatics said it was a sign from God, of course, and, oddly, I think I believed them. That's why, in the second year, with no family left and endless guilt, I handed myself in. \n\n\nAt first, the Council of European Survivors thought I was crazy, but they were so desperate for answers that they decided to believe me anyway. I fully expected to be held accountable in a very public trial, instead, they locked me in a cell at the top of the Prison of Europe without so much of a whimper to the outside. \n\n\nSo, four years on, here I am, still locked in my cell. My punishment? I have until my last one litre of water runs out to try and fix what I've caused. I spend my days whistling that dreaded nursery rhythm over and over, trying to find the correct pitch, match the exact way I sang it that day to try and reverse this mess. \n\n\nProbably have two days of water left now. I'll be dead even quicker if I neck it off, but to have a last, deep drink of water would be heaven to my permanently cracked, sore throat. \n\nI don't give in to my urges, instead, I go back to my corner and sing through dry lips;\n\n\nRain, rain go away\n\nCome again another day ",
"_________________________________\nCredit to [this site](https://www.nurseryrhymes.org/rain-rain-go-away.html) for the original lyrics. Enjoy :D\n___________________________________\nThe children's song echoed in my head through all of my youth from the mouths of playful rugrats, but the first time I sang it to my daughter, I realized with horror that I had never sung this particular nursery rhyme aloud before. \n\nWe were watching through the windows as Hurricane Wendy washed some wet waste down Williamsburg Way. Elizabeth, \"Zabby\", begged me through tearful eyes to make the bad storm disappear, so I did what any father would do. I got to my feet and danced an entertaining rendition of 'Rain, Rain, Go Away:' \n\n*Rain, rain, go away!*\n\n*Come again another day.*\n\n*Papa wants outside to play.* \n\n*Rain, rain, go away!*\n\nFinishing my twirl and stomping on my right foot, I thought her clapping was for my performance, until a brass rod of sunlight shot through the window like a tossed spear. \n\nI took Zabby outside to play, because what else could I do? But after a few hours we stopped and drove to McDonald's to get something to eat. Devouring our overpriced health hazards wrapped in joyful delight, I looked over top of my daughter's head to see the breaking news report on the hanging television. \n\nA banner ran at the bottom of the screen reading, \"World stunned as all rain clouds vanish!\" Satellite pictures from around the globe showed the blue and green of our planet without a single white blob to cover it. \n\nMy face must have looked like the children's book cover of 'My Horrible Trip to the Dentist!' because Zabby asked with her most heart-shattering, worried voice, \"What's wrong, Papa?\"\n\nNot wanting to scare her, I tried to think quickly as I stared at her with my same facial expression. \"Boo!\" I jumped with mock monster hands grabbing towards her. \n\nIt worked; she genuinely giggled. I fake smiled. \n\nI took Zabby home and tucked her into her pink, Misses BoPeep bed sheets. \"I had fun, today, Papa!\" she said sweetly. She was asleep before her lips had stopped moving. \n\nI sprinted from her bedroom and began dancing like a madman in the living room on the same spot from earlier. Any words that I could think to sing to bring the rain back spewed from my mouth in singsong manner. How long did I have to figure out the magic spell? How long could the world go without water? \n\nHalf an hour passed, and I was panting when my little bundle of joy came waddling in her night clothes. \"What are you doing, Papa?\" she asked, her knuckles rubbing her eyes. \"You're making a lot of noise.\" \n\nI couldn't hide the worried look on my face this time. \"Papa is trying to bring back the rain, Zabby.\" \n\n\"Oh, Papa.\" She said in a condescending voice fit for a self-assured 7 year old. \"That's easy.\" And she began to sing:\n\n*Rain, Rain, we've had our good fun.*\n\n*Return now, from where you've run.* \n\n*Hide away the warming sun.* \n\n*Joy today is gone and done.*\n\n*Rain, Rain, we've had our good fun.*\n\n*Return now, from where you've run.*\n\nThe booming thunderclap masked my shriek."
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[WP] You’ve always been warned to never swallow watermelon seeds but never believed in the warnings. One day, you purposely eat one and think nothing of it. Until a week later, when you notice your belly is starting to grow.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I popped the seed into my mouth and swallowed, sure that nothing bad would happen. I happened to be home alone, and was truly curious about all the fuss. Watermelon was my favorite food, and my dad always picked out all the seeds, one by one, before I was able to eat it.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nOr he got the canned kind, which was honestly just THE WORST.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nA couple days went by uneventfully. I had homework over the break to do to fill my time, and I had games and friends contending with my attention.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nWhen I woke up on the sixth day, I felt... heavier somehow. Looking down my blanket, I saw a lump beginning to form in my stomach. *Eh, probably just a bit of fat from being so inactive,* I thought.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe day went on much like the previous six had, except my parents kept jokingly commenting about my new chubbiness. I gave them jesting comments about their age in return. Besides some really uncomfortable positions I found myself in that night, nothing of notice happened the rest of the day.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe next day I woke up,the lump had gotten larger. I poked my stomach to see what it might have been, but the lump seemed to be nearly rock solid.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe room around me spun and I tasted something vile at the back of my throat. Rushing to the bathroom, even with my impairment, I opened the toilet to let out what I thought would be bile.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThe bile was red, with black seeds, just like the one I had eaten, dotting the muddy red.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nMy mind raced as I tried to figure out how I had eaten so many watermelon, and how the seeds had somehow gotten mixed in with it, when the door to my bathroom creaked the rest of the way open.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n“Oh, dear, you just had to try it out...“ I heard my dad trail off. “*sigh*... Your mom and I did not want to tell you about the dark side of your favorite food. We did not want to ruin it.“\n\n&#x200B;\n\nI wanted to ask him what he meant, but my stomach felt like it lurched upwards. It was all I would do to aim the seeded fruit into the toilet in time.\n\n&#x200B;\n\n“When a seed of certain kinds of fruit are eaten, they often... bond... with the host. They form a symbiotic relationship, but their price can be steep sometimes. They change your very DNA into an amalgamation of plant and human.“ Dad chuckled a little, as if he had heard a joke, and continued. “You will no longer be able to have children the ´human´ way, though you can still... pollinate with other kids... On top of that, for the first month or so, this kind of thing is going to happen for you. Waking up dizzy and throwing up soon after.“\n\n&#x200B;\n\nI was slightly horrified that this had happened, but before I could voice my concerns... well... you get the idea.\n\n&#x200B;\n\nThere was less of the watermelon, though only by a small amount, in the toilet bowl. I loathed to think about what would happen later on."
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[WP] You're an elite assassin. After sparing a infant's life during a massacre, you went into hiding. You lived under an alias and took up an office job, quietly nurturing the child to adulthood, until a man you once knew shows up at your door.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\"This is Larry Sherman from Ufirst insurance, can I interest you in some amazing new plans-\" the man stated before the tone indicated the customer had already hung up. He sighed, putting down his phone and glancing at his cheap thrift store watch. It indicated 10:38 am, over seven hours left in his shift. \n\nGroaning, he ran his fingers through his thinning brown hair. Time seemed to flow like molasses at this dead end insurance job, surrounded by acres of cubicle fabric soaked with coffee stains and wrappers from the doughnut shop down the street. The unceasing chorus of ringing phones drilled into his mind, making it difficult to muster the quietest of thoughts. This was the place dreams went to wither and die. And he had dreams. Because \"Larry Sherman\" wasn't like the rest of these corduroy clad telemarketers. \n\nHis dreams had come true a long time ago, when he was a professional assassin. His lifestyle consisted of jet setting around the world to take down the global elite in exotic locales, ranging from Monaco to Dubai to Los Angeles. He was a master in the art of murder, an expert in his craft. He used to lounge in the infinity pools of five star resorts in the company of presidents and supermodels. And he relished every moment of it. He fancied himself something of a cross between a serial killer and a spy, an unpredictable force of nature with the nerve to kill a blind puppy in a wheelchair. \n\nOr so he thought. Turns out, his heart wasn't entirely made of steel, and in the heat of a mission gone wrong in Beirut, he had the compassion to take the child of of a dying civilian unfortunate enough to be caught in the crossfire. Now he's stuck in an oven of an office complex in a garbage town in Ohio trying to persuade people to buy terrible life insurance. His once chiseled body had disintegrated into a pile of coffee fueled mush. It was the life he would have killed to escape. All for a smiling face on his cubicle wall. \n\nThe cacophony of beeps and ringing phones had finally reached a crescendo, and Larry decided he couldn't take the noise anymore. He clocked out on a break and staggered to his Honda Civic in the parking lot, moored in the same spot it had been in for 10 years. It wasn't as cushy as the break room, but at least here would be some peace and quiet. He let out a sigh as he plopped down on the tired cloth seats. He looked up in the rear view mirror and almost gasped at the face staring back at him. It looked nothing like the youthful demeanor of his past self, encrypted with the mystery and glamour of a spy. It was almost as if he had put on a revolting mask at a halloween store. He barely recognized the thinning, unkempt hair, unshaved beard, and flabby jowls that reflected back through the mirror. \n\n\" Is this the difference 18 years makes? \" he thought to himself as he sat reflectively in his car. He couldn't believe what he had become, or what his past self would think of him now in his red \"Ufirst\" polo shirt and khaki pants. Was it worth it? His eyes fell to the open glove compartment and a dusty photo sitting inside of it. It was a picture of him of a few years ago on a fishing trip in Florida with his daughter Ash. She was holding a 60 lb. marlin she had caught and reeled in herself , much to her delight and her father's pride. He sighed remembering the legendary celebration and dinner they had that night. \n\nAs he stared at the memory permanently captured in the photograph, he realized that the past 18 years of his life were not a waste, not a failure. He had raised a daughter out of the ashes of his mistakes, and raised a companion and friend. He had a bond he had never felt his whole life, a passionate love for his child like his father never had for him. And if he could bring one child from a world of pain and death into a productive, caring, passionate member of world society, than his struggles were worth the long, tiring commute to work every single day. \n\nAs he got ready to go back to work, his phone buzzed, signaling the cherry arrival of a new text message. Normally he'd just skim it and go back to work, but as soon as he read the name of the sender his heart went into his throat. \n\n&#x200B;\n\nMr. Simon. \n\nMr. Simon from Beirut. \n\nMr. Simon, the man he was supposed to kill. \n\nThe man he had spent a lifetime running away from. And he had been found. \n\nThat was evident in the brief but clear message on his screen. And his face fell further the more he reread the words: \n\n*Ryder, you betrayed us. It's about time we returned the favor.* \n\n&#x200B;\n\n **to be continued**\n\n&#x200B;\n\nthis is the first time I've written in awhile, lemme know what you all think! :D I've been wanting to get back into it for some time now",
"\"Hi, Laura Thomas speaking.\"\n\nThe silence at the other end of the line was frigid. \n\n\"Hello?\"\n\nDead air. This was the third time this week -no caller ID, not a single sound to break the silence. Two more times than what was comfortable, twice more than what could be dismissed. But I had no intention of betraying my apprehension. I cleared my throat.\n\n\"I have no time for games. Who is this?\"\n\nNothing but a glowering silence.\n\n\"Very well. Enjoy the rest of your day.\"\n\nI'd lowered the phone to end the call when that voice finally responded. And it turned my blood to ice.\n\n*\"Milena Novikov.\"*\n\nShock pulsed through me at the sound of that name, the sum of eighteen clandestine years opening up and swallowing me whole. \n\nNo.\n\nMilena Novikov was buried with the Vasilevas. Her name had burnt to cinders right alongside theirs until the world forgot any of them had even existed. I should know -I was the one who lit the match. I lick my lips, suddenly aware of the dryness of my mouth. \n\n\"Usually when someone contacts the wrong person, they apologize and hang up. Basic etiquette.\"\n\n*\"Did you really think you were going to outrun your past forever? That it wouldn't catch up to you?\"*\n\n\"We all have dreams.\"\n\n*\"Time to wake up.\"*\n\nWith that the call dropped and a knock sounded on my front door. \n\nThere is a shorter route from my spot in the kitchen but I abandon it in favour of the hallway -my Isle of Firsts. Each step takes me past a framed first -a first birthday, a first seaside excursion, a first day of school, a first school dance, a first fishing trip, a first dance recital, a first graduation. My fingers gently brush the walls on either side, as though gleaning strength from every glimpse into the past -every fleeting memory held in suspense, frozen and concurrent, playing out in happier times that will never know the ashes of past horrors or the sobering future to come. Forever happy and forever safe. \n\nBy the time I make it to the door I'm reminded of why I made this choice despite knowing it would visit me one day.\n\n\"Moroz.\" A wry smile tugs at my lips.\n\n\"Mel.\" It's as though my old nickname taste of bile for the bitterness in his voice.\n\n\"They still have you chasing ghosts after twenty years.\"\n\n\"Yes. Haven't lost one yet.\"\n\n\"I'll bet. Well, there's a first time for everything.\""
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[WP] You, the hero, lay on the ground next to your nemesis. Both of you are unable to move and the remnants of your battle stretch around you. You and your enemy both agree to pull off your masks at the same time. To your surprise, you know each other very well.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I laugh as the blood trickles out of my mouth. The air is heavy, but that just might be the punctured lung talking. Who knew that we’d be so close at the very end of it all?\n\n“Noir?”\n\n“What Blanc?”\n\n“Who are you?” I turn my head toward Noir. His body looks funny with his legs twisted under his torso. I can tell from here that his spine has snapped. It seems like an eternity before he answers. He sighs and turns his head toward me. \n\n“Why do you care?” He wheezes out, I can tell he is having just as hard of a time breathing as I am. I can see the burning trees in the background. The remnants of our battle continues to fall around us in the form of ashes. \n\n“It always struck me as odd that a person with stark white hair would pick Noir for a name.” I make it a point to look at his face while I talk. I wonder what it looks like under his black eye cover. His blue eyes stick out like a sore thumb beneath the black fabric. \n\n“Says the girl with black hair who chose the name Blanc..” His blue eyes close for a minute as he tries to control his breathing. The pain in my own chest is beginning to become unbearable and it’s getting even harder to breathe. I probably have less than ten minutes. “I‘ll show you my face if you show me yours?”\n\nHis words startle me out of my daydream and I stutter out, “You want to know who I am?” \n\n“I mean, yeah. I only just lost my life fighting a battle I would never win.” I don’t think I imagine that hint of fear in his voice. We really are going to die here. I feel the panic creep up, but then it’s gone. What the hell, why not?\n\n“Okay Noir, masks off on the count of three?”\n\n“...Deal.”\n\n“1.”\n\n“2.”\n\n“3.”\n\nAnd then we are both laughing.\n\n“It had to be you.” Noir, no, Damien speaks first.\n\n“I always knew I was going to hate that I loved you.” I smiled at Damien, my best friend of 15 years. It’s getting harder to keep my eyes open. I can hear how hard it is getting for him to breathe from here. \n\n“You always were a pain in my ass to keep an eye on Rebecca.” I could hear the warm chuckle in his voice, “I always knew this stupid feud would take you away from me. I just never imagined this.” He let out a heavy sigh. I felt the tears begin to slip from my closed eyes. \n\n“Thanks for being my friend, and my enemy Damien.” I spit more blood out of my mouth and listen to the forest. I listen long enough to realize that it’s too quiet. \n\n“Damien?”\n\n“Damien??”\n\n“Damn you, had to go first didn’t you Noir?” I chuckle to myself for the one-sided conversation and I let the darkness take hold."
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[WP] An assassins guild is cursed to give incorrect orders. After one member lays and marries their target by mistake, a team is sent to fix the issue. The curse, however, is still in full force.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Daren Imark pulled a warded glass tube from his assassin leathers with a quiet rasp. The other members of his unit watched with quiet intensity as he placed it upon the table they sat around. Black light flickered within, and a shrouded hood appeared. A projection such as this was only given in matters of grave importance to the guild, matters of death requiring the utmost skill.\n\n“Members of the eighth shade.” The voice from the hood wasn’t loud, or even imposing, but the cold of deep winter had no need for such things. “Yselda Narak, one of your fellow assassins, has slept with and married the legendary spellsword Cael, of the Blade-Forest.” The hood paused, as though waiting to see if whispers would break out amongst the ranks of Daren’s shade. There were none. The voice of death continued, echoing with lethal finality. “You will bring unto her a warm and final embrace, before leaving the newlyweds with celebratory Jade Hound puppies, to guard their estate.”\n\n“Lord Shadow...” Daren cringed as the hood focused on him, it’s endless depths boring into his eyes. “We are... not to kill her?” A howling breeze came from the black maw of Lord Shadow, spreading frost across Daren’s eyebrows. “You. Are. To. Bring. Her. Puppies. And. A. Hug.” The room darkened further as the force of Shadow’s displeasure increased. “Do not question me again, Shade Imark.” With that, Lord Shadow vanished, the glass tube that had generated its likeness dissolving into fine, clear sand. Daren looked around at his team, seeing the uncertainty had not been contained to him alone. But he was bound to obey.\n\n\nMythru and Mythra, brother and sister deities of mischief, were crying uncontrollably. “YOU ARE TO BRING HER PUPPIES!” To specify, crying with laughter that shook their godly domain. Mythru bounded over to his sister, sweeping her into a spinning hug. “PUPPIES FOR THE ASSASSIN WHO HAD ORDERS TO LAY AND MARRY INSTEAD OF SLAY AND BURY! HAH!” Mythra pounded her brother on the back as her giggles sent birds flying from the trees in rainbow flocks. “BROTHER!” \n\nMythru stopped spinning Mythra. “Sister?”\n\n“Wait till you see the assassin who got sent to ‘deal with’ the young mageling at the playground!”\n\nThe siblings collapsed to the ground, laughing hard enough to kill a mortal with the sound alone."
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[WP] - You are a being that exists in four dimensions. Tell us what you see.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"Your life is like an ant farm. You know that annoying toy made of two pieces of glass with sand in between. Then you out ants in, add some sugar on the side, and the ants carve out a pathetic little life inside. They have no way of getting out, even if they could see the apple you put in front of the ant farm, they would have no hope of getting to it. They can build their cities to the top but never have anything meaningful.\n\nThat's all this is. Some dirt piled up into cities. a civilization made out of sugar. But no matter how high I build it I'll never be able to reach the apple on the other side of the glass.",
"Holding cell 453:\n\n\"Comfy, inmate?\" asked the woman as she strutted proudly into the cell.\n\n\"I'm exactly as I always intended to be.\"\n\nThe well-dressed guard in her pressed black suit wrote a scribble into a notebook.\n\n\"The irony is,\" said the inmate, \"you were never going to check that note even when you wrote it. However, my saying this makes it so you will, and then my saying of that makes it so you won't. Branches of continuity. Streams in the timeline. However, while you buy a car and may consider the fact it will rust. I see it deeper\".\n\n\"What do you mean?\"\n\n\"Anyone could predict you wouldn't check the note, but I saw you wouldn't and that you would. I saw how and why. The mechanisms of it. Like you in the 3-dimensional space see physics. I see cause and effect. You're stubborn. Prone to defying expectations. A little cliche for a girl in a man's world, but you wear it like a medal. However, I didn't need to read you. I saw it.\"\n\n\"You haven't been eating or sleeping enough.\"\n\nThe inmate stood and began to move around his room, \"You source your produce from a factory farm. I lose my appetite when I see the treatment of the animals. I watch them suffer with every bite. Every single one\".\n\n\"What did you mean by intended?\"\n\n\"Dominoes fall because of what precedes them. I meant to kill the men I killed. I knew their crimes and how things would end. I made the choices I made. I did so even knowing we'd have this conversation.\"\n\n\"Why?\"\n\n\"If I told you, you'd never let it happen.\"",
"The sentient beings on the planet they called “Earth” were starting to get restless. I could sense that something awful was brewing.\n\nIf only there was a way to warn them.\n\nI was unsure of what convinced me to see what I could learn from their planet. It was a rather long walk distance-wise from my dimensional pocket to the human world; I couldn’t even imagine trying to do it in three dimensions like those Earthlings.\n\nOnce I did arrive, however, I was fascinated. I strolled backwards until the point that I saw their planet begin to form, jogged through billions of years of meteoric violence (including a really cool collision that led to a moon forming around the planet), and slowed to a brisk walk as I watched life begin to form on the planet.\n\nI slowed down for a moment then, just in case any of them might see me. However, it quickly became clear that the creatures on this planet could comprehend three dimensions at most.\n\nI was safe, surely, but I felt something brewing as I continued to wander through the timeline of life on Earth.\n\nStill, that strange feeling could not distract me from my sense of wonder. I watched as giant plants, and then giant creatures, began to form in the oceans and on the land. I watched numerous mass extinctions, the rise and fall of the dinosaurs, and finally the emergence of sentient primates capable of building a somewhat advanced society.\n\nThe humans, as they called themselves, had three dimensions, five senses, four limbs, and a dangerous mix of intensely powerful emotions for a relatively social species.\n\nI noticed that something was wrong about 100 Earth-years after they formed their first permanent societies. They were frightening but relatively harmless on a grand scale when they were just hunter-gatherers, but my sixth sense was telling me that something was off in the fourth dimension.\n\nThe fearful side of me told me to run; run across time and space as far away from this galaxy as I could get.\n\nMy curiosity told me to keep going, and my curiosity won.\n\nI watched with ever-increasing horror as the humans expanded their societies and quickly overran the planet. If I’d jogged at the pace I had through the formation of the planet, I would have been shocked to see the planet simply wink out of existence.\n\nI slowed to a near-standstill as I progressed through the human Industrial Revolution, watched as governments rose and fell, watched as small-scale skirmishes became planet-wide battles.\n\nI watched one group of humans use nuclear fission to flatten a city full of nearly identical humans, and barely a blink of an eye later I watched them do it again.\n\nThe tiny fear tugging at the back of my mind had faded, replaced by a terror that crawled across my skin and seemed almost to be emanating from the Universe itself.\n\nThen, I reached the end of the year that most of the planet referred to as “2019” in their calendars.\n\nA wall appeared before me, one that the humans were completely unable to see. I pushed up against it, my morbid curiosity still triumphant over my fear.\n\nNothing happened.\n\nI tried again. I could not travel back to the moment when I entered existence, but I had never been stopped before. I had been well past this relative point in time in other parts of the Universe. What was happening here?!\n\n*TURN BACK*\n\nThe voice came from everywhere and nowhere, as if the Universe itself were sending me a message.\n\n“WHAT IS GOING ON?!” I screamed, unsure of who or what could hear me.\n\n*TURN BACK*\n\nI saw the wall in front of me start to shimmer, and for just a brief moment I saw what was to come.\n\nAnd I ran, ran away across space time until I could forget what I had seen.\n\nI haven’t stopped running since.\n __________________\nIf you liked this, check out my subreddit! r/NicodemusLux",
"Have you ever looked at a piece of paper and imagined if things lived on it? Imagine a cartoon, but alive. A flipbook that breathed.\n\nFrom your perspective as a man standing over it, you could see its every move. It could never hide from you except, in a universe sized paper, by running away from you outside your sight. Yet, you could follow, not interacting with the paper until the moment you choose to.\n\nAs you push your finger into the paper, they would see something inexplainable. It would change size at will. If you pushed multiple fingers in, it would exist in multiple places. You could crush and kill at will. A two dimensional wound on a three dimensional body is literally non-extant. They would need to fully bisect the body part you placed in the paper before you could move, else the wound would not exist. You can use weapons, if you never interact with the paper, they cannot harm you, but you can harm them.\n\nStanding above the paper, you see all, know all. You are the being who decides how you interact with them, not them.\n\nI see in three dimensions. Your whole world, inside and out. I can shine a light in the dark places, say the core of your world, and you'd never know. I can appear here and there, all over if I wish. You can never really harm me, but if I wish to kill you, I can.\n\nSo, when I say I come in peace, know I speak the truth. When I say I know infinitely more than you, I speak hyperbole, but only just. When I say duck, duck.\n\n******\n\nMore stories at /r/JohnGarrigan"
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[WP] The church bell never rang; not for death, not for life, war, or disaster. Today, the village woke to its peals in trepidation and fear.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"For whom does the bell toll?\n\nIt tolls for the old man.\n\nFor whom does the bell toll?\n\nNot for birth nor death it can.\n\nFor whom does the bell toll?\n\nNot for pestilence nor war.\n\nFor whom does the bell toll?\n\nFor the old man that climbs down the mountains' path.\n\nFor the old man who comes like a phantom in the night, the old man who walks in plainest daylight. With blade in hand and shield in another, with a single strike justice they'd deliver. Justice against those who've betrayed justice' sake. Justice for those who believe justice still stays. The old man's actions cannot be judged by man, for by the gods alone does he reveal his hand. \n\nHis blade is absolute, unwavering, unsullied. Unbeholden to others, not even his enemies. His shield exists, a mockery of life. A shield that does not protect, but a portent dread. He wears armor so heavy his steps quake the earth, yet the bell does not toll till his deeds become dearth. Armor that rings and jangles with every step, none hear it but those who would meet death.\n\nFor whom does the bell toll?\n\nNot for me, not for you.\n\nFor whom does the bell toll?\n\nFor the town to know, the old man has collected what's due."
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[WP] The rest of the village panics when the Mongol raiders arrive, but not you. You’re a history teacher stuck in the past, and you’re going to change history.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I swear that contrary to all evidence up until this moment, there is a God. A malicious and evil God who for some unknown reason has bestowed on me a curse. What wicked twist of fate would result in me being sent back to such a hostile, brutal and (they don't teach you about this in training) foul smelling place.\n\nThe last thing I remember was being in class, lesson about to start, new class of pupils walking in, one stops and asks \"You're our history teacher?\" and that's when it hits me. Whatever \"it\" is, something soft, but hard, dark but blinding and then bang here I am.\n\nBeing sent back in time to a period known for pain and loss, for the destruction of knowledge and freedom. A roughly built up town with dire fortifications, everywhere you look a precursor to stories of rotting corpses being launched into city walls and entire populations being decimated. A time period where those you know are family and family are close; those that are outsiders are looked at with suspicion. People around me panicking about what will come to be and how to avoid their inevitable outcome.\n\n> Submit or die.\n\nA simple message, seems quite clear, but I know, they know, to submit is to also die. They apparently successfully repelled early visitors and so this second approach is not without its vengeance. This message is much more \"some die\" or \"all die\", do the population want to see its men butchered and its women taken into bondage and used as playthings? Or would they rather watch their men butchered and its women used as playthings and then butchered? Its not a great choice.\n\nMy only passing piece of luck is having awoken in this god forsaken place looking completely out of place and exhausted, I was taken in by a family who have been so very kind to me they almost restore the faith in humanity the educational system has taken out of me. They've fed me, clothed me and given me a roof over my head; the foods not great and clothes smell weird and the roof is mostly mud but its better than nothing. I've helped manage the work that needs to be done around the property, so much time is spent on manual labour. I've never had an issue with getting my hands dirty, but also the family time is warm and friendly.\n\nHow do we even communicate you ask? So to understand, we need to jump back to my university life. At the start of university next to my dorm was this girl Ava, we hit it off and this girl became my everything. She was Iranian and I seriously I thought I'd marry her. Being the young idiot I was, I tried to learn Farsi to impress her and eventually to ask her father for her hand in marriage. I took night courses for 2 years, told her I was busy studying on those nights, I did pretty well considering I'd never been great at languages before. Turns out she loved those nights off from me as she was busy with another guy all those years. Turns out her father isn't actually Iranian, her mother is, her father is just common as muck British. Turns out I spent all that money on nothing, turns out I became almost fluent in Farsi for no reason and no use. Well.\n\nTheir house is essentially one room, cleanliness isn't really a consideration and cooking is generally done outside. There are numerous similar buildings within eye sight as too are the city walls beyond them to the East, the city of Merv.\n\nOn the few times I've entered the walls it appears to be quite the bustling metropolis. I'm pretty sure based on discussions that this is on the Silk Road, there is a surprising mix of cultures and identities coming and going and the market is really quite the impressive thing to look at.\n\nI think myself often pondering before sleep that I wasn't perpetually exhausted I might start to enjoy the life here, then I remember the hoard.\n\nThe day the news of the demand had spread to my adoptive family I heard the husband Naudar let out an audible yelp that sounded like Cthulhu himself had temporarily inhabited his vocal chords to give weight to this reaction. The family has changed since, life in the home has changed, it's an atmosphere I can only describe as persistent abject terror.\n\nSo that is when things came into motion for me, I knew right then what needed to be done. Quite simple really, use my superior knowledge from the future to beat the hoard when they come. Sure it is going to be difficult to get everyone in the city on my side, have them listen to my plans, but I have time to prove I know what I'm doing. Plus, maybe there are events I can predict, they couldn't deny such a thing. Maybe I can find some caves, I'm pretty sure bat droppings can be used to make gun powder. We could engineer a Trebuchet, it became a meme for a reason.\n\nThere's only one big issue here as that question echoes in my head \"You're our history teacher?\". Well not really, I coach sports, I do PE, I was just a substitute that morning."
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[Bardiche of Gaia](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/comments/i9occx/wp_the_bardiche_of_gaia_a_battle_axe_said_to/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share)
[Bow of Conflagration](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/comments/i9rqlk/wp_the_bow_of_conflagration_is_a_bow_which_fires/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x)
[Lash of Zephyr](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/comments/i9ow2s/wp_the_lash_of_zephyr_a_serpentine_whip_which/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share)
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[WP]The Sword of frost, a sword said to manipulate water, lay encased in the frozen waterfall. Said to be once wielded by a solemn hero, no one has been able to break the ice, until you tell it a cold joke.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I hear the swish of my climbing rope a few feet above me. Right.\n\n\"This egg was wonderful! And that's no yoke.\"\n\nA couple hip bones cracks. Left.\n\n\"How do you stop a charging elephant? You take away his credit card!\"\n\nThe snapping of a few upper leg bones. Right.\n\n\"What do you get when you cross a penguin and a seal...? A satisfied seal!\"\n\nThe crumbling of a dozen skulls. Left.\n\nI groan and continue pacing on a twisted ankle in the middle of the waterfall, trying to find that *one* pun that would free the sword and allow the water to revive my tiny, dying community. And also, to save my life.\n\n\"Here I am, pacing besides a frozen waterfall in the middle of a blazing hot ***summer***, dying of dehydration and starvation, and the sword has a sense of humor as cold as that ice and as frozen as that water. It definitely *wasn't* **ice** of me to, quite literally, drop by.\"\n\n***BANG!***\n\nI leap backwards as the waterfall shatters outwards and suddenly sweeps me away, only for the sword to form a slide of ice that carried me to the bottom of the cliff and gently drops me to the ground.\n\nCatching my breath, I look at the sword that's now hovering beside me.\n\n\"Why me?\"\n\n*You were the only one brave enough to get as close as you did and as persistent enough to find the right words to say in order to unfreeze the water.*\n\n\"*You're* ***female***?!\"\n\n*Yes.*\n\n\"Oooooooooo-kay...\"\n\n*I could be your mate, if you want.*\n\nI back up on a ***healed ankle***(?!), severely blushing, and bumped against the cliff, now ***officially*** freaked out that a *sword* was offering me her - *her?* \\- **her** \\- herself. \n\n\"Why the sudden and blunt and abrupt offer? Why not get to know me first? For all you know -.\"\n\n*You could be a kind, compassionate, and unselfish soul who braved dangers without taking cowardly and ultimately lethal shortcuts by plane, helicopter, teleportation, or truck, despite your community begging you, then humiliating you for not doing so; who risked a painful death to get to the right spot; and who risked an even more painful and prolonged death to find the right words.*\n\nDid it - she - just ***blush***?!\n\n*Also, - without taking everything I just said in account - you're the cutest man I've ever seen.*\n\n\"Uhhhhhh...\"\n\n<Well... \n\nI would be completely inundated with offers, both local and abroad after getting back, but given the fact that the women and their fathers would only be interested because I only happened to *save them and their families*, and from being a hero, not because of who *I am*...\n\nEh, give it shot.>\n\n\"Trial basis first, if you don't mind? Also -?\"\n\nWith a flash of light, the sword physically transformed into a very gorgeous woman, fully dressed in traveling clothes that matched mine.\n\n\"Well?\", she held out a hand, smirking at the astonishment on my face.\n\nGrabbing it, I marvel at the warmth of it and the pulse of her heart as I'm pulled up.\n\n\"And when we're beset by robbers, gangs, and the like?\"\n\n\"I'll transform back. Also, this is *really* flesh and blood. I bleed, I get hungry, I'm ticklish, I cry, ect., ect.\"\n\n<Don't ask *it*. *Don't ask it*. Get your mind-!>\n\n\"And yes, I *can have children*.\", with a slight smirk and playfulness in her hazel eyes.\n\n*Alert. Mind.exe has crashed.*\n\n*Reboot?*\n\n***Yes*** *or no?*\n\n\"Well. That's not something you hear everyday.\"\n\nShrugging, I pick up a ripe pear from a fruit tree as a familiar tune -.\n\n\"Adventuring music from *Indiana Jones*? What other surprises do you have hidden inside there, Miss-?\"\n\n\"Qerach. Hebrew for 'ice'.\"\n\n\"Of all the languages-?\"\n\n\"We're in what was once called simply 'Israel', right?\"\n\n\"That's what the ancient stories say.\"\n\n\"There you go. There's also the fact that I can control the four elements and all plant life.\"\n\n\"And our children, IF we have any...?\"\n\n\"Will have the same abilities. Where do you think the Council and Guardsmen came from?\"\n\n\"Your previous master?\"\n\n\"Till he...\", she's on the brink of tears.\n\n\"Hey, hey...\"\n\nA while goes on in silence, then,\n\n\"Thanks...\"\n\n\"For a sword, you're an excellent kisser...\"\n\n\"Heh. What experience gives you...\"\n\nI gaze around the Kingdom's forest, with nothing to do and my whole life ahead of me.\n\n\"So, where to first, my dear?\"",
"When the hero retired, he left behind the sword behind his powers. The Sword of Frost was left in a waterfall, deep inside the Jalgara Forest. When it was placed, the waterfall froze, suspending the Sword in midair. The hero then left, and wasn't heard from again.\n\nOver time, people discovered the sword, and attempted take it. They tried to melt the ice, but it wouldn't even loose a single drop. They tried smashing it, but even the mightiest of blows couldn't crack it. They cast spells of breaking, of taking, and spells to dispel the magic. Each attempt failed.\n\nEventually, it became a mere oddity. With no-one able to get to it, and no prophecy concerning a chosen one retrieving it, ot was left. Every now and again, people would venture to it, and try their luck. But nothing ever came of it.\n\nI decided to head to it one day. I had no intention of claiming it, I just wanted to see the sword for myself. I had my familiar with me, a little wolpertinger named Dralgo. He had been with me for years, after I had worked out how to summon him. He was able to hear danger coming, and warn me to get out of the way, so I wasnt afraid of venturing into the forest.\n\nIt was a 3 hour walk there, so I left early in the morning, such that i could get back the same day. It was a relatively uneventful trip there, with the most exciting thing being a couple of squirrels dropping nuts on us.\n\nWhen i go to the clearing, I spent some time just looking at the beauty of the place. A waterfall, completely frozen in mid-flow, it was a wonderous sight. The trees around had grown in such a way that a single shift of light fell in the clearing, perfectly illuminating the Sword of Frost haning there.\n\nI made my way to it, and stared at it through the clear ice. I felt the sudden urge to say something, as if the Sword was watching me.\n\n\"Ice to meet you.\"\n\nDralgo groaned, and facepawed. \n\n\"That was a terrible, terrible joke.\"\n\n\"And thats why its funny.\"\n\n*Crack*\n\nI looked up, directly at the Sword. A single crack had formed in the ice, in line with the Sword.\n\n*Crack, Snap, Crunch*\n\nI stepped back as cracks worked around the waterfall, and parts of the ice broke off. The Sword shifted, and fell forwards. I instinctively caught the handle as it came towards me, and a voice spoke in my head.\n\n\"It has been some time since I have heard such a joke. Are you going to be the one to wield me? I think so.\"\n\nAs I held it and it spoke, I felt colder and colder. My breath steamed before me, and I could feel frost form around me. The cold penetrated deep inside me, and I couod see Dralgo frozen in place, as ice covered his form.\n\nThe cold covered my centre, and I found I could move again. The cold was there inside of me, but the frost on me melted away. Dralgo's ice shattered, and he shook himself free of any remaining pieces. The Sword spoke to me again.\n\n\"You are my new wielder, as you survived my chill. We will do things together, much like my old wielder before.\"\n\n\"Uh, thank you?\"\n\n\"You are welcome. I can sense you are confused.\"\n\n\"I am. Why did you choose me?\"\n\n\"Others wanted me for themselves. They lusted after my power, and thus couldn't be trusted. You however, you sensed me, and told an awful joke to introduce yourself. You are an interesting, and switched on, individual.\"\n\n\"What power do you have? There were stories of waves being manipulated, and ice appearing in the middle of summer, but i don't know if they were true.\"\n\n\"They are true. I, the Sword of Frost, can manipulate water in any state. I can freeze it, melt it, create it, destroy it, and anything else you can think of.\"\n\nDralgo looked up at me, confused.\n\n\"Selina, who are you talking to?\"\n\n\"The Sword of Frost\"!\n\n\"But its a sword. Swords don't speak.\"\n\nI could feel the mind of the Sword reach out, and touch Dralgo's.\n\n\"I do, little familiar.\"\n\n\"AAAHHHH!! VOICE IN MY HEAD!!!\"\n\nNow was my turn to face palm, and Dralgo panicked and started running around frantically. I could feel the Sword radiating confusion.\n\n\"Is he always like this?\"\n\nI sighed.\n\n\"He's not a fan of surprises. So when being spoke to by something inside if his head withoit expecting it, yes this is normal. Dralgo, stop!\"\n\nDralgo stopped, hovering in midair.\n\n\"Stop worrying, its fine. The Sword is friendly.\"\n\n\"But, it spoke in my head!!\"\n\n\"Yes, I know, but don't panic about it, ok?\"\n\n\"Ok.... you're the boss.\"\n\n\"Damn right I am. Now, Sword, when you say you can manipulate water, how much are we talking about?\"\n\n\"I can do anything within 200 wagon lengths. You can too, through me.\"\n\n\"Uh, ok... how?\"\n\n\"Can you feel the cold inside you?\"\n\n\"Yes...?\"\n\n\"Good, now let the cold flow into your mind, and think about what you want the water to do.\"\n\nI concentrated hard. I felt the cold, and tried to pull it in, but it didn't budge. I tried again and again, but it didn't work. The Sword interuppted me after another failed attempt.\n\n\"No, don't force it. Just... relax. Accept the cold is there, and just, let go of it.\"\n\nI dodnt reply, focusing again. I then realised my mistake. I had tried to pull away from it, as it was foreign to my mind. I cautiously approached it,and tentatively welcomed it in.\n\nIf flashed through me, and I instinctively knew how to use it. I looked at the waterfall, still frozen with a hole in. I fwlt the water, suspended in placed, and broke the bonds holding it together.\n\nThe ice collapsed in on itself, and the mostly silent clearing filled with the sound of crashing water.\n\n\"Well done wielder. You are indeed a natural.\"\n\n\"Yeah, well done Selina. You are the best!\"\n\n\"Thank you Dralgo, thank you....Sword? Is there anything else I should call you?\"\n\n\"My name is Sword of Frost, but my prior wielder gave me a nickname, which you can use if you wish.\"\n\n\"What name is that?\"\n\n\"Call me Jack.\"",
"\"You're not really going back up there, are you?\"\n\nJames kept trudging along, with no answer. \n\n\"Christ James, you can't be the bloody chosen one. This'll be your fourteenth attempt!\"\n\nHe spun around with furor, eyes wide and hot.\n\n\"I told you, i saw it move last time!\"\n\nI huffed, what a foul and unfunny joke. Too many times have i come up here, to watch my brother torture himself with childish dreams. The sword had been in the Frozen Falls for millenia, it wouldn't be leaving it anytime soon. Here i am, following him nonetheless; I have to make sure he doesn't do anything stupid.\n\nWe finally make our pass of the bearded sycamores, and climb a small outcropping. Frozen Falls i admit is a breathtaking place with a surreal view. Smoke from the camps dot the landscape, sickeningly far down, like observing submerged grass from a lakes surface. \n\n\"Okay, i'm going for it.\"\n\nJames reaches out and touches the falls, closing his eyes in concentration. He begins to recite the legend of Harrius, the hero of our folk. Over time, his story becomes more and more hurried, frustratingly. Until he just falls to his knees and buries his hands in his face.\n\nI walk over to the bit of the falls that reaches over the land, near James. I lean against it, and wave my palms in his face.\n\n\"Don't be upset, brother. That sword is a stubborn old git.\"\n\nHe swatted at my hands.\n\n\"Mother always told me that i could be like Harrius. Maybe she's the fool!\"\n\nHe began wailing, annoyingly. \n\n\"James. Harrius was probably an old wanker himself anyways.\"\n\nHe sniffed, and looked up at me. Through his dirty bangs and sweat stained tears, i could see a sense of acceptance. Finally, now we can all move on from this nonsense. \n\n\"James, what did Harrius the hero say when he slipped and fell on ice?\" \n\n\n\"What did he say?\"\n\n\"Nothing. He just gave everybody the cold shoulder!\"\n\nI expected a laugh, but what i got was a bloody earthquake. It was instantaneous with the punch line of my stupid joke. The falls began to crack, and water began to fall, torrentially. I watched in horror, as giant shards of ice began to rain down upon the whispering woods below. James had already started speeding down the outcrop, and towards the village. I sprang to follow, but a vine had grabbed me, dragging me back to our previous place of business. \n\nI yelped in intense frustration. Had i just not allowed James to dream this silly dream, i wouldn't perish like this. There was no way this cliff face could hold out through the rumbling.\n\nBut it did. The stop was sudden, and deafening the silence was in contrast with the low rumblings of before. I saw a glittering out of the corner of my eye, movement. My head shot in the direction of it. \n\nThe sight was awe-inspiring. The sword of Harrius the hero, was floating toward me, at a gentle pace. An ethereal figure crept beside it, eyes locked onto me. As he approached, he offered his hand.\n\n\"Stand, young hero. Accept this gift, for you are worthy.\"\n\nGaping was my mouth. Though, i did not accept his hand. He was a ghost, and was also floating a few meters from the cliff. I had no interest in plummeting to my death, or trust this hallucination. \n\n\"Oh, sorry. I didn't realize i was flying.\"\n\nHarrius chuckled and made landfall. He looked me up and down, and with a frown, he turned to his sword. I could hear him whispering to it,\n\n\"Are you sure this is the one?\"\n\nThe sword nodded.\n\n\"But he's so... small?\"\n\nThe sword nodded.\n\n\"Ahh whatever i want to pass on anyways.\"\n\nThe sword nodded.\n\nI shot up, not only offended with wounded pride, but also just generally pissed. I didn't want to be the hero of anything. I had plans to travel to the nearest villages and become a bard. I quickly reached out and grabbed the sword, and threw it as hard as i could down the falls. I gave Harrius a smirk and began to walk off. \n\nHarrius erupted with laughter, but disappeared. I continued holding my smirk, just incase he had only camouflaged and hadn't really left. I developed into a jog, and then into a full bodied sprint. As i reached the foot of the mountain, i started feeling as if i was being watched. I turned hastily, to make sure Harrius wasn't trying to haunt me, and a chill escaped my spine. \n\nThe sword of Harrius the hero was following me, nodding along to my feet's rhythm; and it was then that i knew, i cannot escape my destiny."
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[WP] You are the latest isekai protagonist, you've been summoned to a fantasy world to fight a great evil and marry the princess, unfortunately the summoning instructions are written with metric measurements and the wizards used imperial measurements.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"\\[Gore Warning\\]\n\nThe weird book you opened emitted a shaft of golden light, and suddenly you felt yourself be whisked away.\n\nThen, you scream as you feel your limbs getting torn from your body, flesh rending as unending force stretches and pulls your body in various directions. Your gut wrenches as your intestines rupture from the pressure, and you feel all of your limbs detach from their sockets. The unending agony twists your brain and forces tears to stream down your face. The pain is unbearable.\n\nYour journey hasn’t stopped yet, however, and even more excruciating pain and suffocating pressure is inflicted upon you. Lights blink in and out of your eyes as you feel the bleed on your veins boiling. Yet somehow, somehow, you remain alive. You desperately wish for death. Yet no god is kind enough to grant it.\n\nThere is no relief, but you sense that you’re on some sort of floor now. Your eyes had long since burst, and the less said about the mangled state of your ears the better. There’s there other sad sacks of flesh and agony on the ground next to you, and unexpectedly you feel something hard and heavy land on you from above. It’s a shield.\n\nSurprised, a loud voice asks, “Well, fuck! I guess we were supposed to use centimetres, huh?”"
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[WP] The human armies are approaching. The demon lord is not in the castle. You have been dispatched to find the demon lord and do--only to discover that the demon lord is pretending to be a farmer, raising the hero.
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"**Welcome to the Prompt!** All top-level comments must be a story or poem. Reply here for other comments.\n\n**Reminders**:\n\n>* Stories at least 100 words. Poems, 30 but include \"[Poem]\"\n>* Responses don't have to fulfill every detail\n>* See [Reality Fiction](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Reality+Fiction%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) and [Simple Prompts](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/search?q=flair%3A%22Simple+Prompt%22&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for stricter titles\n>* [Be civil](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules#wiki_rule_10.3A_be_civil) in any feedback and follow the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/rules)\n\n[](#icon-help) [^(What Is This?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/off_topic) ^•\n[](#icon-information) [^(New Here?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/user_guide) ^•\n[](#icon-help) [^(Writing Help?)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/index#wiki_writing_resources) ^•\n[](#icon-exclamation) [^(Announcements)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WritingPrompts/wiki/announcements) ^•\n[](#icon-comments) [^(Discord Chatroom)](https://discord.gg/js5XDFB)\n\n*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/WritingPrompts) if you have any questions or concerns.*",
"I close my eyes, feeling magical energies flow around me. Focusing the magic around my arm, I direct it towards the nexus inscribed on the floor. With an ear-piercing sound, the earth rumbles as a powerful beam of magic erupts from my hand.\n\n\"That's it,\" I smile. \"I've finally mastered the ultimate destructive magic. Those pesky humans can't possibly stop me now!\"\n\n\"Maester, I bear horrible news!\" I hear a cry as my secretary runs into the room.\n\n\"Did I not tell you to knock before entering?\" I look up, frustrated. \"You'd be smoked by now if you were just a few seconds early.\"\n\n\"Maester, it's important,\" he pleads. \"The human armies are arriving!\"\n\n\"What?\" I ask, confused. \"Didn't we just defeat them a while back? Don't they learn their lesson?\"\n\n\"They seem to have, Maester,\" my secretary explains. \"Or at least, they've learned their lesson about bringing small armies. It seems that... every kingdom in the continent is sending their army after us this time.\"\n\n\"How many are there...?\" I ask, conjuring a scrying circle in the air in front of me. Immediately, I could see it all - hundreds of millions of humans, clad in steel armor, marching their way to the castle.\n\n\"Incredible,\" I say in disbelief. \"Why would they send all of their forces here? Do they want all their soldiers to die? Send for His Majesty.\"\n\n\"That's the issue, Maester,\" my secretary squirms. \"We can't find him.\"\n\n\"You can't... he's not in the castle?\" I ask, heart racing. He rarely left, and if he did, he usually returned after a while.\n\n\"I doubt so, Maester,\" my secretary concludes.\n\n\"I wonder where he could have gone to,\" I say, conjuring another scrying circle. I look into the circle, and scowl.\n\n\"Where is he, Maester?\" my secretary asks.\n\n\"I'll be right back,\" I say, closing my eyes, summoning my magical energy. In the blink of an eye I was gone.\n\n*\n\n\"Just like that,\" the old farmer says, smiling at the girl. \"Enough carrots for stew tonight.\"\n\n\"Yay!\" the young girl shouts excitedly, running back to the small countryside cottage. The old farmer chuckles, then turns around.\n\n\"Hello, may I help you?\" the farmer asks, with a friendly look.\n\n\"Yes, indeed you may,\" I respond. \"Why are you here?\"\n\n\"I don't understand what you mean,\" he frowns. \"Have we met?\"\n\n\"This is preposterous, Your Majesty,\" I say, frustration rising. \"The humans are about to attack. Can you get back to the castle to prepare our defense?\"\n\nThe old farmer looks at me with a thoughtful look, then walks towards the cottage, motioning for me to follow.\n\n\"Come with us and enjoy some stew,\" he says, as he walks into the cottage.\n\n*\n\n\"Firstly, who is that kid?\" I ask, taking a small sip of the stew. It was the most wonderful stew I have ever eaten, but I was not about to admit that.\n\n\"Oh, that's the hero,\" the farmer says. \"Long story.\"\n\n\"Please explain,\" I take another nibble of the heavenly stew, inadvertently letting out a contented burp.\n\n\"I cast a scrying spell,\" he said. \"To locate the hero. There's one that appears every few years, and I figured I'd try. Lo and behold, I found her.\"\n\n\"And of course, you tried to kill her,\" I say sarcastically, knowing that wasn't true. The Dark Lord has always prioritized fun over practicality after all, and I expected this to be no different.\n\n\"No, of course not,\" he replies, further ascertaining my beliefs. \"That'd be no fun. She's a kid.\"\n\n\"Of course,\" I say, taking another bite, trying very hard to resist the temptation of gobbling up the remaining stew. \"So you decided to raise her.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" the old farmer explains. \"I wanted to have some competition. You know, raise her to be a powerful warrior, _then_ kill her. Keeps things interesting.\"\n\n\"Uh huh,\" I say, totally not eyeballing the delicious stew.\n\n\"But then, I guess you could say I grew attached.\"\n\nI was expecting this, honestly. I look at his face, smiling at the thought of the child.\n\n\"She's so precious. I don't know, I don't really have any intention of killing her now.\"\n\nI say nothing, but continue looking at him.\n\n\"She's showed me that maybe,\" he seems lost in thought. \"Maybe, just maybe, I don't want to be the evil one anymore.\"\n\nI felt shocked, but forced myself to maintain a neutral face. The one who was truly evil, the one who I'd swore allegiance to, he was... renouncing his evilness? Retiring?\n\n\"What are you going to do now?\" I ask, looking at the young girl sleeping on her bed, her chest rhythmically rising and falling. \"What about the castle? The demons?\"\n\n\"I won't return,\" he says. \"I'll continue raising her to be the best hero she can be.\"\n\nWe sat in silence for a while. I finished my stew, then sat, thinking about things.\n\n\"Would you like a refill?\" he asks, pointing at my empty bowl.\n\nYes, of course.\n\n\"No,\" I reply, standing up. \"Thank you, Your Majesty.\"\n\n\"Always,\" he says.\n\n\"I look forward to the day when we do combat,\" I say, eyeing the girl again. \"She seems capable. She has potential.\"\n\n\"She's going to win,\" the farmer says, his eyes twinkling.\n\n\"I hope so,\" I say, turning away.\n\nA tear drops from my eye.\n\n*\n\n\"Where is he, Maester?\" my secretary asks. \"Did you find him?\"\n\n\"You mean 'Your Majesty',\" I corrected. \"Gather the troops.\"\n\nMy secretary gasps in shock, but then nods and rushes out of the room. \n\nI smile, as I summon an aura of magic around me, preparing for the battle. Around me, I hear the cries of demons, humans, magic and metal.\n\nI close my eyes, and focus on one particular scent.\n\nCarrot stew.\n\n---\n\nNote: My third writing prompt response, went for something quite different this time! Criticism encouraged!\n\nEdit: fixed some inconsistent tense, oops"
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