Daily Flash Fiction Challenge

Flash Fiction - - 4-8-18 - - shape shifter

Never Rest

Dawson skillfully evaded those hunting him. After another chilly mountain night, the spoils would all belong to him and his brothers. After stealthily fleeing the dig site with their ‘stash’ on the ATV, he had carefully hidden it in the cache, then headed northward leaving no detectable trail.

Right now, he simply wanted to rest. On the leeward side of a large rock formation above an old mine, he gladly saw an opportunity to rest. He had bypassed the structures knowing they would attract attention in the unlikely event that anyone might have followed.

Out of the wind, he scanned the valley below. Concealed by undergrowth, he knew he would be unseen and could his guard down and relaxed. He thought he heard a sigh as he sat on one of several small boulders. After carefully checking the area, he dismissed his alarm. Then, as he often did when trying to unwind, he verbally processed his situation, but ever so softly.

Don’t worry, everything went as planned . . . no, better. Just be patient now.

Dawson took a deep breath. Softly he recounted their preparations . . . precautions at each stage . . . safeguards as he headed toward the cache and along this hillside.

Just rest. Use those branches for cover tonight. Then get to the tavern at Pine Station to meet Benjamin and George. Be sure to pick up the military jacket and shave!

He knew the details well. After an hour of keen observation, he allowed himself to nap.

Silently, a nearby boulder seemed to shudder. Silently, the rock shimmered., becoming a mouse. Silently scampered away, the creature then changed into a raptor, off to tell the others where their next skirmish would take place . . . the tavern.