Queer Sci Fi's Flash Fiction Contest Book 6
IN-NO-VA-TION (Noun)
1) A new idea, method, or device.
2) The introduction of something new.
3) The application of better solutions to meet unarticulated needs.
Three definitions to inspire writers around the world and an unlimited number of possible stories to tell. Here are 120 of our favorites.
Migration feaures 300-word speculative flash fiction stories from across the rainbow spectrum, from the minds of the writers of Queer Sci Fi.
The Serpent and His Summoner
Matt Doyle (300 Words)
“Why?” Kourt whined, his feathered, serpentine tail tensing in shock. “Why would you do this?”
David smiled and willed himself forward, traversing the electric haze of the containment unit with ease. “For us.”
“No,” the demon replied, turning his head away. “You died. And now you are trapped.”
“I don’t view it as being trapped,” David replied, crossing his arms and shooting his companion an indignant look. “You once told me that you would do anything to be with me. Was that true, or just part of the summoning contract?”
“It was true,” Kourt huffed. “Not that it would matter if it were not.”
READ MOREDavid nodded, turned, and tapped three times on the wall. After a few seconds, three more answered and the wall faded from view. “Two taps would mean I made a mistake and I’m coming out,” he explained. “Three means I stay, and the exit can be shut down.”
“Fool! Bring it back!”
David shrugged. “I can’t. My assistants can use the tech I created, but I was the only one with magic. Without me, they can’t even redraw the summoning circle.”
“So this is your machine. Damned new-age wizard, combining magic and nature into something less efficient. What if the power cuts?”
“Back-up generator.”
“And if it cuts permanently?”
“We’re free. You return to Hell, and I do whatever human spirits do.” David ran his hand along Kourt’s tail, raising it gently to his face so he could breathe his scent. “I know this isn’t forever. But it’s more time that we would have had otherwise.”
Kourt frowned. “It no longer hurts you to touch me?”
David smiled. “I am electricity now. In a way, I’m yours to command, oh feathered, electric serpent.”
Kourt sighed, and finally, smiled. “Then…let us find ways to enjoy our time.”
COLLAPSE