The Rare New Moon

Helena thought her eye-protection glasses were not right. The cloud of smoke was assuming a human form.

She was terrified to hear a vaguely familiar voice in close proximity,

“Help me. It has been eight years.”

“Eight years since what?”

“He said that New Moons signify hope, not darkness. But, ninety-six New Moons have been just darkness.”

“He, who?” Helena was trembling.

“My tormentor. He converted me to smoke, and said only a rare New Moon can bring me back.”

Helena saw a figure resembling her sister, who had disappeared on a tour to the Saharan deserts in July, 2009.

(100 words)

Friday Fictioneers by Rochelle Wisoff