Moonsprite took off at a gallop, her silver hooves beating out the passage of time. The late afternoon shadows were lengthening more quickly than Sinead would have ever anticipated. Her unicorn sped on into the sunset’s orange glare. They were aware of nothing but the dazzling sunset and the need to complete their journey before the day ended.
Sinead tasted the tang of salt in the air and felt the freshening breeze on her face. Moonsprite’s pace was slower, her progress hampered by the deepening sand under her pounding hooves. Flecks of foam appeared her flanks as she desperately pressed on.
The flaming sky turned purple as the last lip of the sun disappeared below the horizon in a final orange flare. Moonsprite’s steps faltered in the soft sand and Sinead slid from her back.
Torches borne by shadowy figures flared around them, moving ever closer in the velvet darkness.
Image credit: Harlekin Kid on Deviant Art
Previous episodes of Sinead’s Final Quest
Very interesting addition.
LikeLiked by 3 people
🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love how you captured the determination of Moonsprite to make it across before nightfall. “Her silver hooves beating out the passage of time.” The shadowy figures had best be friendly, as Sinead will show some determination herself. Well done Chris.
LikeLiked by 2 people
🙂 I do hope so, although we know Sinead isn’t easily defeated. Thanks for the encouragement, as always, Darnell.
LikeLike
You’re welcome. Love Sineads story.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh no! There would be shadowy figures right at the end! 😱Friend or foe?🤔I really enjoyed your use of imagery!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Debra! Whoever they may be, it’s not the end of the road yet 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your details are flawless! I especially liked the “last lip of the sun.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Irma 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have a feeling those shadowy figures might not be so friendly but I hope I’m wrong! I love your descriptions of the sunset and sky.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Ellie! You never can tell with shadowy figures, we’ll find out next week 😉
LikeLike
Suspense
LikeLiked by 1 person
Indeed!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I came in for Sparky ..lol..but this adventure is priceless as well…i adore how vivid your details are..
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Mich! Alys and Sparky have gone on a little holiday, but they’ll be back sometime in September. In the meantime, my Friday Flash Fiction will be devoted to a second series of my fan fiction series, Space Cadets 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ohhhh i see..thanks for that info Chris..
LikeLiked by 1 person
Shadowy figures carrying torches at sundown? They don’t appear to be that friendly, Chris, but then, who does in shadow?
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can’t quite make them out yet 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
They’ll reveal themselves at the right time!
LikeLiked by 1 person
‘Tis true!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very interesting.
Stay happy healthy and safe
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nice to meet you 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
😊🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is very interesting! A tad scary. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m pleased to liked it, Michelle 🙂 Sinead’s had to face many challenges… She’s a strong one!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nice. Thanks and much appreciated for sharing
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very intriguing! I can’t wait to see what’s next for them. I was really feeling for Moonsprite there.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Poor Moonsprite. She had to be the responsible one. I think it was something the elderly elf said to her before they left the castle.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re such a tease!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The long tiring journey.
Enjoying the series.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sorry, Kritika, I’ve been reading your comments in the wrong order. I’m playing catch up after losing my internet for a couple of days!
LikeLike
Please do not be sorry.
Enjoying the tales💕😊. Keep writing 🌷
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Kritika! I’m so pleased you’re enjoying the saga 🙂
LikeLike
OH NO! Oh wait. Could be good. I don’t know, darnit! What a cliffhanger. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Could go either way… read on 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person