Twelve Seconds – Emma

One second. I couldn’t move. I knew I was about to die, but I couldn’t move. Sure, I was weak, but my determination was strong. I would never give up as long as my will kept me moving forward.

But now, my body had succumbed to fear, accepting my fate. Where did my strength go? Didn’t I say I wasn’t going to be a burden on my party? Did my resolve mean nothing?

If anyone tried to save me, they would die too. It wasn’t worth it.

I could easily be replaced.

Two seconds. The beast opened its mouth. The beam of light began to shine once more, aimed directly at us. The rest of the party moved out of the way – their instincts telling them they could live. How lucky they were.

This was the end. The beast was ready to fire. At least I lived a good life; I think I did anyway. This was one of the dumber ways to die though. If only I felt despair, then I could be released from this humiliation.

Still, I wouldn’t let my mind succumb to the pressure. The most I could do was glare at the beast. It was a trivial act of resistance, but I could at least hold my head up high.

Wait…why did you turn around? You shouldn’t have come to save me! You’re going to die too! Stop!