Daily Flash Fiction Challenge

Fountain, Tower, Valley

300 Word contest

Charla studied the terrain down the slope into the valley. It was not large, neither the slope nor the valley. The ruins of a tower peaked over the tops of stunted elm trees. Typically, tall and majestic specimens have been affected by magic. The scout had barely perceived the small trail that led into the valley towards the tower; It must have been a Wizard's tower.

The ragtag group of mercenaries, licking their wounds from the last foray into contested territory, had retreated to regroup and recuperate. Nalan's stomach wound would not heal without magic. She would be dead by nightfall. Seven left of the band of thirty raiders led by captain Carli; friend and confidant to Charla

"What next captain?" the innocent question came from the youngest of the mercenaries.

"I am Captain now." A burly man named Redner drove his horse forward till he towered over the medium sized Charla.

He was a great, bear of a man. He was the thorn in her bush. With his right hand holding the reins, he could not intercept her response. Her left hand swung out and up. The steel vambrace caught him on the square jaw. It was his greatest weakness. He fell to the ground in a slump.

"Marco, drag him into the bushes. Clear the trall. Maybe some magic left in the tower. Charla said guiding her tired red mare towards their goal.

A fountain tinkled with illusionary water, haunting silver wind chimes

Exploration led to the alchemy room. Uncouth people had destroyed what was left of crocks, and small glass beakers. There was no magic left to use. They bedded down.

Redner arrived nursing a swollen jaw. He nodded to Charla and settled down on his own bedroll.

One crisis averted.