THE PATH OF NO RETURN

‘They say the man who can climb the steps and face the enemy on the other side will forever hold the balance of peace within the kingdom,’ said the blind seer, his face worn and grizzled, his hair grey and wispy. ‘Many have tried, none have returned. You should proceed with caution.’

Quinn gripped the sword and shield. ‘No man has returned, you say?’

The blind seer looked puzzled on hearing the voice. ‘You are a child? You cannot possibly continue on this quest, it is too dangerous.’

‘Not a child,’ said Quinn, ‘a woman.’

Copyright Amanda Forestwood

Written for Friday Fictioneers hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields (more details HERE). The idea is to write a short story of 100 words based on the photo prompt (above).

To read more stories of 100 words based on this week’s prompt, visit HERE.

‘The State Trilogy’ and ‘The Barra Boy’ available now.

39 responses to “THE PATH OF NO RETURN”

  1. Ah well that does screw up the prophecy

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Always good to upset the way of things. Thanks Neil

      Like

  2. Dear Iain,

    No man perhaps, but my bets are on Quinn. 😉

    Shalom,

    Rochelle

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks Rochelle 🙂

      Like

  3. Shades of that famous scene from the LOTR trilogy, “I am no man.”

    Liked by 2 people

    1. That’s the idea. Thanks James.

      Like

  4. Nicely done!

    Liked by 1 person

  5. Who would’ve guessed The Mighy Quinn was a woman? It’s about dam’ time!
    Not sure Bob Dylan had your insight when he wrote this song: https://youtu.be/K13hH0pJx5s.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Of course we know, sometimes these thins do need a woman to sort it out! 😉 Thanks for the link – hadn’t even thought of that!

      Liked by 1 person

  6. Now that’s the way to fulfill a prophecy. Well done.

    Liked by 1 person

  7. She’ll be back! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  8. great twist in the end. well done. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  9. History is about to change methinks! Nice one, Iain.

    Liked by 1 person

  10. Beware the sword bearing woman! I say. She won’t fight fair, and she’ll win! Way to go, lain! love it!

    Liked by 1 person

  11. Absolutely love this. I hope she gets the victory 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Of course she will! Thanks Linda

      Liked by 1 person

  12. Love it! She’ll save the world, or fight it. I bet whatever is there she will prevail

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Of course she will! Thanks Laurie

      Liked by 1 person

  13. Yay! Speaking as a woman…Thanks Iain.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. You’re welcome! Thanks Dawn

      Liked by 1 person

  14. Great take Iain always beware of a woman carrying a sword 😃

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I steer clear! 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Fabulous shifting of perspective, Iain. I hope she finds a way where others have not.

    Liked by 1 person

      1. You’re welcome 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

  16. Boom! Well told. I have every faith that she will be the one to face the enemy on the other side of the steps and come out on top.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Of course she will!

      Like

  17. I’m on Quin’s side – she’ll find a way.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Definitely. Thanks Liz

      Like

  18. That’s even worse! I’m joking. Many women have succeeded where men have failed. What does the prophecy say about the woman who climbs the steps?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The trouble is none of these ancient prophecies seem to mention women…!

      Liked by 1 person

  19. Haha. Love it. Nice twist. She will return.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Victorious of course! 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

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