Author Archives: Ross Mannell

Legend tells the people The Great Beast had ruled since the beginning of time. The Beast was the keeper of darkness, the one who stole sunlight from the sky.

Legend also taught the coming of The Star Child would return The Light, “He who is so chosen will defeat The Great Beast.”

When of age, The Star Child ascended into heaven. The sun streamed through and sunlight returned paving way for all to reach The Light.

In The Great Beast’s world, dad called out, “Turn that light off. We’ll have moths everywhere.”

For the people, darkness returned as they awaited the next star child.

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Vera knew her husband could at times be forgetful. She worried he might forget their silver wedding anniversary. Silver often found its way into conversations.

“Jared, have you noticed how my hair has turned silver over the years we’ve been married? Do you remember we first met on the Queen’s Silver Jubilee?”

She only hoped he took the hint and was pleased when, on the day, he handed her a box, “This is gold. It’s our silver anniversary.”

Jared smiled as he kissed her, “Silver is second place at the Olympics. My love for you has always only been first.”

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Mila was proud of her latest litter. Six puppies would mean hard work but she was experienced in puppy raising.

As Mila watched her puppies at play, one caught her attention, “Hani, tail chasing did not help. You won’t catch it.”

Hani stopped his chasing, “Mumma, it’s not the chasing. If we aren’t willing to try the impossible, we don’t grow.”

Mila, looking to her other puppies, heard a muffled call, “Mumma!”

Turning, she realised Hani was destined for greatness. He sat with tail in mouth.

In time, Hani grew into a rescue dog renowned for his bravery and willingness to go where others wouldn’t.

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Leaves gently drifting, their russet and golden colours lending contrast to the dullness of an autumnal day. Life passes before me and I see the beauty of children at play, the presence of young lovers, elderly couples enjoying their own company, the joyous laughter and the feel of a cooling, gentle breeze.

My life has been short compared to many yet I had been born, had grown to the fullness of youth and am now fading, assured, in time, others will take my place.

My final destiny has been reached. I am the leaf and it’s my time to fall.

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Known to mortals as The Ancients, they guarded the Earth. As the world turned, they controlled the elements and were the givers of law. This was the faith of the people.

Steven Cargo’s curiosity drove him on as he made his pilgrimage. Days passed until he faced the final climb.

He asked The Ancients the eternal questions, “Why am I here? Is this all there is?”

He awaited an answer never to come. From above, a great object descended crushing The Ancients beneath.

How could this be? For S. Cargo, this was the fate of many of his kind but surely not The Ancients.

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Dark and cold, the cabin offered shelter from the growing storm my small tent couldn’t.  It was now spring but a cold front had returned a touch of winter.

Fumbling in my backpack, I found a candle and some matches. At least I would have light. Flickering dimly, the candlelight caste shadows around the old cabin. I imagined the lives of those who had once called the cabin home, the shadows their spirits lingering.

Sleep.

I woke with a start, the candle almost gone but there was still enough light to see a presence before it faded.

A sound, perhaps a whisper, “Welcome to my home.”

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