I wanted to try something different today, using one of my own nature photos as a prompt. Here goes!
Darrian double-checked his envirosuit before approaching the sealed hatch. With only a slight hesitation, he inserted the coded chip and was rewarded almost instantly by a flashing green telltale. With the alarms muted and surveillance recorders in a repeating loop, it would be hours before the others discovered he was gone. By then, he would either have returned with helpful news or frozen to death.
It was questionable if his shipmates would even miss him, though he would be one less mouth to feed. Paralyzed by fear and infighting, the stranded colony had become a more toxic environment than the unnamed planet on which they’d crashed. It no longer mattered – he’d come to a decision and it was time to act.
Darrian slipped through the hatch, boots crunching on layers of snow and ice. Once the door was secure, he set off for the distant hills in search of a future, leaving only footprints behind.
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UPDATE – My fantasy series, Rise of the Draman, is still keeping me busy. The serialized version of book four, Dragon Quest, will begin in August, and the final story is currently underway. Many thanks to my faithful readers – I hope you have enjoyed the series so far!
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Author: Alexander Elliott
Alexander Elliott lives in the upper Midwest and is the author of multiple books in science fiction, fantasy, paranormal, and romance. His work is replete with themes of love, passion, family, humor, hope, and acceptance. Good triumphs over evil, providing happier endings for his stories.
When Alexander isn’t busy writing, you’ll find him enjoying a good soak in the tub, reading, cooking, giving to charity, or keeping up with his kids, grandkids, and extended family. He loves chocolate, insists on sending birthday cards, and considers himself an old-school Star Trek fan. While he is afraid of heights and hates exercise, he’s a loyal friend, neat housekeeper, and an enthusiastic grandpa.
The author is known for masterful storytelling and phenomenal world-building. His books feature realistic, well-developed characters, emotional depth, sizzling romance, and all the adventure, action, and intrigue necessary for a great read.
Alexander understands that real life can be discouraging and stressful. Reading allows him to get away from it all, and he invites you to join him. If you have enjoyed his work, he would love to hear from you!
Email: aelliottbooks@gmail.com
Website: https://aelliottbooks.com/
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Great flash! The uncertain ending was so poignant, and thechatacter’s small flickers of hope makes it all the more intriguing.
Do you intend this as a photoprompt for others to do?
Thank you! I didn’t really know what I was doing, but I’m glad you liked it.
Actually, it WAS my intention for others to take part, but I had unanswered questions about the photo and the rules – and ran out of time. I intended to send you an email today, asking for help!
Haha, got the email!
Intriguing! That would be a book I would enjoy
You know, I probably would too! I’m kind of expecting a few of these prompts to be developed later on into longer stories. Thanks for reading!