Short Stories

Week 1

Prompt

Using the action and reaction of 2 characters, demonstrate the use of cause and effect to build towards a crisis/climax.

***

"Sometimes I really just want to fight you!"

Sasha smirked, turning towards the exasperated voice. "Tyler, you would lose."
Her words had the effect she hoped. Tyler twisted his arms, silver glinting in the air cutting through invisible enemies in an impressive feat of strength.
Finishing his manoeuvre, he pointed the tip of his longsword at her, eyes glinting with excitement.

"You challenge me?" Like a gentle breeze his words washed over her, igniting the flame within her to a blazing inferno.

She said nothing, turning as if to walk away, watching him stalk her like a lion from her periphery. He thought he was the predator, but no. Today he was the prey.
She counted his steps; noting how he moved, his weakness in gait, and in concentration, as he no doubt analysed her.

He stepped forward, raising his blade, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips.
She was upon him, daggers sliding smoothly from sheaths at her wrists, becoming an extension of her as she spun. His smile froze.

He may be strong, a simple kick or hit unable to break his defences, but Sasha was quick. Where he was a lion, she was a leopard.

Tyler dodged, taking a nick in the arm from her blade, but kicking his foot out, utilising her momentum to send her sprawling across the floor.

"You call this a challenge?" His teeth gnashed, his voice quivering with humour.

Jumping back to her feet, she turned to Tyler, her eyes taking him in. He was overconfident now. Running at him, she did not slow, she showed no hesitation. In moments she was on him. Her legs around his neck. Her momentum bringing him down to the floor. The sound of his sword skidding from reach like a song to her ears. She perched on top of him, daggers to his throat.

"No I don't."