Self Defense

Self Defense

The scurrying of leaves sent a chill down Rolf's spine, reminding him of the cold and wind that lay just outside. He struck the flint again and was gratified to see a small shower of sparks fall onto the kindling. Patience, he reminded himself.

With a soft exhale, he nurtured the tiny embers into flame, feeding the fire until it became self-sustaining.

"There," he announced.

Lucille poked her nose out of the thick fur wrappings. Light from fire danced across her face, making her eyes shine jewel-like in the shadows.

Rolf let a smile of pleasure find purchase on his face. She is so beautiful crossed his mind again. He let the warmth of the fire seep into his body while the warmth of his feelings worked from the inside out.

The shock of cold water hitting his face brought him back; back to the feel of rope burning his wrists as he hung from a cleat in the ceiling, back to the pain, and back to his situation.

He became aware of a buzzing sound. So, it begins again.

After a moment's pause, the sound resolved into words as the translator spat out an imitation of human speech. "Why you come here?"

Rolf was part of a xenology group that was assigned to make first contact with the natives of Proxima Centauri P3. Why indeed? he found himself asking. This was not how it was supposed to go.

All had been fine until the first night. The "beakers," as they had been nicknamed due to their vaguely bird-like appearance, had attacked them in their sleep. From what Rolf was able to piece together, they were somewhat telepathic ... and human dreams were like acid, burning their thoughts.

Rolf fought back the only way he could; he closed his eyes and The scurrying of leaves sent a chill down Rolf's spine ...


Notes:
An entry for the 1/21/11 round of "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge"  [13+]
Prompt: Write a story that includes the words: leaves, jewel, rope.
Word Limit: 300
Word Count: 300

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please, as long as you're here, leave a comment. Criticisms, thoughts, reactions, yes – even praise – are all equally welcome

Ken