The Ladies of Horror
Picture-Prompt Writing Challenge!

This Cursed Night
by R.A. Clarke

White as chalk. Dappled grey. Beneath the moon, it’s time to play. He comes to life devoid of breath. A brave young man is claimed by death. No rise and fall upon his chest. Off with the head… you know the rest. 

Or maybe not, this tale doth twist. A lantern perched on blistered cysts. It flames, it sizzles, whispers, taunts. But this pumpkin says not, “Ichabod”. It cries for mercy, weeps for peace. It begs for you to calm the beast. With the axe, may relief be found… If stolen and swept to hallowed ground. 

You dare to fight, unseat the gourd. Slice and smash of your accord. By grace, you live. The horseman withers. He wilts and crumbles, melts and shivers. You’ve won and live to tell the world! You cry in triumph… kiss your girl. 

But beware, my friend. Don’t turn your back. A demon waits in leather tack. 

White as chalk. Dappled grey. Beneath the moon, he’s back to play. He’s quick and snap! Reclaims his axe. Whinnies roar and hooves they crack. Brave young man, he cleaves your head. Anoints your neck with flames instead. Blood and rage course through your veins, filled with ancient, righteous pain. You cry for mercy; weep for peace. Yet, all the while, you ride the beast. With hours left before first light, heads must roll this cursed night.

Fiction © Copyright R,A. Clarke
Image courtesy of Pixabay.com 

About author R.A. Clarke:

The Big Ol’ Bike
Oliver is small, from footprint to glasses. He gets an old bike for his birthday and loves it, but not everyone does. Challenged to a race by the meanest bully in school, will Oliver be big enough to prove heroes come in all sizes?

Get your copy here!