She was amazed at how much had changed. Colored lanterns illuminated the beach. Children played on the boardwalk. Vendors sold cold drinks and hot food. Desolation had given way to life.
“Remember that ancient warehouse where Tug died?” her brother said. “They razed it and built a pier.” He pointed. They watched in silence as another passenger-laden ferry came in slowly to the docks.
“The curfew’s been extended,” her brother said. “Maybe there’ll be fireworks!” There was a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
“Oh, no,” she said, worriedly. “Tell me you didn’t.”
“But we’re all so proud of you! Incono gives us everything because of you, you and the others.”
He cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted, “SHE’S HERE! Our Guardian is here!”
People stated to gather. Some people stared in awe, others wanted to touch her, thinking she would give them good luck. This was the hard part. The training had been bad, and the fighting worse, but facing everyone’s expectations, that was worst of all.
A vendor offered her a steaming meat patty and would accept no money.
She slowly chewed the pastry, not wanting to offend. When the tears came to her eyes, she convinced herself it was because she had burned her tongue.
A boy of about five rushed forward. He wrapped his arms around her legs and looked up in admiration. “I want to be Chosen too!”
“Maybe,” she said softly, looking down at the child. “If you’re one in a million.”
Rules for Flash Fiction #6
Maximum length: 250 words.
The theme is: compensation.
The setting is: on the waterfront.
Within the story, you must use this text: came in slowly.
As always, the challenge originates from Diminished Fifth.
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