Short Story: The Last Barrier

Aryam Alqasmi’s story explores themes of history, culture, resilience, and family bonds, set against a fantastical backdrop.

The moon was shining beautifully that night. The streets were empty. The small shops were closed. People slept. A commotion was heard from outside. What was it? A question on everyone’s mind. They thought it was a petty squabble. But the night had other plans.

A frantic man with bloodshot eyes babbled something about the village chief. People crowded around him. An old man shook him. “Speak clearly, boy. What’s happened?” And there it was. The invaders had killed the chief. He explained how the chief, desperate to protect the village, had tried to poison their captain. But he hadn’t expected the healer- a magician with healing powers- to be nearby, disguised as a soldier. The healer traced the poison with his magical powers. It had been hidden in a scroll the chief had brought. The captain’s eyes flashed with fury. His jaw clenched. “Crush him,” he ordered. “Use the Kobold.” The air stilled. The crowd froze. Their eyes trembled, and some fell. The last silver line disappeared, and the flood of misery crawled toward them.