Featured Tale
Three Hikes at Silver Lake Trail
Carol peered down the curving lakeside path that disappeared into the dense forest a hundred feet ahead. New to the area, the locals had insisted the five-mile Silver Lake Trail was a “can’t miss hike” that everyone should take, so here she was at the trailhead, ready to start the…
Latest Tales
The Royal Ceasefire
King Bartholomew summoned the ambassadors of Ukravia and Ruzkovia to the palace. “Ambassadors, thanks for coming today. I am pleased to hear of the ceasefire between your countries.” The ambassadors looked at each other, then at the king. “Your Majesty,…
The King’s Royalties
King Bartholomew summoned the royal scribes and bookmakers into his palace. They bowed before his throne as he ate his noon meal. He motioned with his hands. “Scribes! Bookmakers! Rise! I have learned you are accepting royalties. Give an account…
The King’s Alchemists
King Bartholomew summoned the Royal Alchemists to the throne room. They bowed before the king. “Alchemists! You have failed to turn lead into gold.” “From this day forward, I declare you shall no longer be alchemists. You are henceforth magicians!”…
Another Path
The waitress tops off my coffee cup; the cup across from me is full. I’m happy. Today is the day. The first time I will see her, in person, face to face. No profile photo or video call could do…
A Small Price to Pay
King Bartholomew’s armies attacked the distant land of Iranizbad. For months, the war dragged on. He assured his subjects that victory was near. Farmers couldn’t afford feed for livestock, or fertilizer for crops. People couldn’t afford food to eat, or…
All You Can’t Eat
Mr. and Mrs. Termite tucked themselves into their little bed. Mr. Termite’s tummy growled. “That was a long trip, honey. I’m really hungry.” “Me too,” said Mrs. Termite, “let’s eat. There’s a lot of food here.” “Yes, it is a…
Open Another Door
In the Shadows of Dusk
The dying embers of sunlight fade to dusk, casting long, eerie shadows through the windows of the small bedroom. Clara hastily packs a tattered blue suitcase on the bed with a few clothes, personal effects, and a framed wedding photo.…
Casting My Pearls
I hoist the bulging bags of recycling with each hand and head for the front door, the clinking sounds of glass and metal filling the air. “What a racket,” says my roommate Matt, sprawled out on the sofa watching TV,…
The Promise
Claire’s eyes lingered on the glittering diamond ring in the display case, its finely cut facets catching the light of promises to come. Her boyfriend, Donny, beamed and squeezed her hand. Today should be the happiest day of her life,…
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