Floating Down the River

Crystal-clear water flowed over the rough rock, collecting in a deep pool, white foam crashing against tan stone. The steady trickle landed on the body floating in the pool, her brown hair soaked through, her clothes dark and waterlogged, every inch of her dripping. A stream of crimson came from her shoulder, where a black arrow was lodged in her flesh. Her eyes were closed, her limbs still.

Then, with a splutter and a cough, her eyes flashed open and she jerked upright, her legs kicking and her arms splashing. Rings of disturbed water sped out from her as she grabbed at the rock, hauling herself up. She sat there, breathing heavily, wincing at the arrow’s bite. Water ran down her sleeves and her forehead.

She was alive. She had escaped.

But there was no time to rest. They’d be after her soon. She had to keep moving.

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Word Count: 148.

This is for Flash Fiction for Aspiring Writers. Thanks to Priceless Joy for running the challenge and Maria for providing the prompt photo!