I gave the Reaper a stern look. "My friends and I intend to protect this world. The moment you give up is the moment all is lost. I haven't given up yet, so don't expect me to stand by and let you destroy the world." I am writing this to compete in the ONC 2026 (Open Novella Contest) Sapphire remembers when magic enlightened the lives of all she knew. The problem is... that was over a hundred years ago. Things have changed, and even though she hasn't changed at all, everyone seems completely determined to destroy the peace. Her own people don't even seem to recognize she's one of them. With her life and freedom on the line, an unusual choice of weapon triggers a change in the world that guides her down a new path. #36. You're told to choose a weapon before battle, but when you approach the table, the only options laid out are musical instruments.

The Open Novella Contest is back for 2026! Join fellow storytellers and plant the seed of a tale that will blossom into a 20,000+ word novella within 12 weeks! Your epic quest begins February 1st, 2026, so mark your calendars with this date!