Edited Epic Fantasy Sample

My wings numbed as I fell. The more I struggled to use them, the less movement I had. I could only clutch my wound, accepting that I no longer had control—of anything. The icy breeze glided between my charcoal-grey feathers, freezing them until they snapped against the racing wind. I faced upward, toward the ether… toward the home I longed for.

My speed quickened as the ground closed in. Breathing became difficult. Blood leaked from beneath my firm hand, and I cursed the weapon that did this to me. My brethren would not listen—would not think. The war we fought was pointless. And here I was, suffering because of their foolishness.

The wind sang in my ears. It was almost tranquil—the sound of death coming to greet me. I had nothing left to give to this world, and so it only made sense that I die on the battlefield, knowing I had given everything to it.

The numbness spread from my wings and into my back, into my shoulders, arms, legs, and finally my chest. I laid a hand against my breastbone, hoping to feel my heartbeat one last time. But there was nothing but the frozen skin beneath my fingertips.

Maybe I wouldn’t even make it to the ground.

I turned my head to face the setting sun. Crimson and black filled the horizon. The beautiful colors of amethyst and saffron were nowhere to be seen. The world had changed.

My last thoughts were of regret. As much as I wished for a peaceful passing, my mind wouldn’t allow it. The black burning trees now loomed above me. I closed my eyes, no longer able to look at the harsh world.

I collided with something solid, forcing the air from my lungs. I skidded across the scorching sand, tearing my wing further.

I rolled and tumbled until I was motionless.

The smell of smoke filled my nostrils. Then, there was warmth. I first felt it on my forehead, then on my hands. The warmth forced my fingers apart, and I released the tight grip on my wing. Blood flowed freely now.

My wing naturally folded outward and allowed the warmth to touch the injury. The strange sensation handled my wound with gentleness.

I was in pain, but I concentrated on the warmth’s soothing touch until my mind faded to black.