Escaping The Abyss
355 Words
I will my legs to move faster. I plead with my lungs to devour much needed oxygen. Running through the forest, I trip over the small branches that litter the ground, unable to avoid them. Raising my face to the night sky, I only wish to see the moonlight guiding my way. Unfortunately, the moon has abandoned me for as long as I can remember.
My breathing is so heavy at this point, I feel I may faint. This is not an option, I must rest. I slow my pace to a brisk walk, steadying my racing heart. The forest is quiet, too quiet. Not even an owl can be heard. I reach out to feel the nearest tree, and cower in its cover, hoping this will protect me until I can run again.
I don’t stay there long, eager to be in the safety of my home. Continuing this perilous journey through the abyss, I begin to hear them. The rustling of leaves, the soft swish of air, they are coming. Suddenly, a loud boom echos through the sky above. A storm is coming.
The rain comes down hard. The once hard ground, now becomes slippery and thus making my journey even harder. I can no longer hear the rustling of the forest foliage, only soft thuds resonate into the storm. They are still following me, intent on capturing their prey. I silently send a prayer for a shred of light to help me. All too soon, my prayer is answered by the swift strike of lightning illuminating my way for a brief second.
The lightning has given me courage, I run faster. The trees are not as thick around me now, I’m close to home. I push hard. Finally! I can see the kitchen light peeking through the curtain! My path is certain now, flat and easy. I bound up the porch steps, throwing open the sliding door. I’ve made it! I turn around to close and lock the door. As I look out, another crack of lightning lights up the woods, movement catches my attention. Just a blur, what was following me?
- Writer
