Fantasy Prologue II Challenge Winners

We asked you to journey into the realm of fantasy and craft a captivating prologue starting with this first sentence:

“The river ran backwards on the day the Queen vanished.”

This challenge, part of our Revisited series, paid homage to the beloved Fantasy Prologue Challenge. Writers were tasked with creating a first chapter that would introduce a new fantasy world, filled with wonder, mystery, and adventure. From enchanted forests to ancient prophecies, your stories brought magical realms to life!

The rules were simple:

• Submissions had to begin with the provided first sentence.
• Entries needed to be between 600-2,500 words.
• Stories were submitted exclusively to the Fiction community.

We were blown away by the creativity and craftsmanship of your entries. Each story built a unique world and delivered a spellbinding introduction to what promises to be epic tales. After careful consideration, here are the winners:

🏆 Grand Prize Winner: $500: The Last Thing She Engineered by Tiffany Harris

This story from Tiffany Harris masterfully intertwines the mechanical and mystical, creating an atmospheric prologue filled with tension, stakes, and a unique perspective. The prose is meticulous, immersing readers in a steampunk-inspired world where every detail, from the ticking of gauges to the hiss of steam, builds an evocative setting. The protagonist’s personal stakes and familial ties are deftly woven into the larger mystery of the Queen’s disappearance.

🥈 Second Place: $200: Where Stones Bloom by Altum Veritas

This story from Altum Veritas captures a mythical and poetic tone, blending lyrical ballads with a compelling narrative. The vivid imagery of a kingdom rejuvenated and its underlying sense of foreboding resonates with the audience. The balance of folklore and suspense keeps readers enthralled as they navigate a world where prophecy and magic intertwine.

🎖️ Runners-up: $20 Each

A Veil of Water by Penny Fuller

This tale from Penny Fuller expertly mixes romance and magic, portraying a queen bound to the very lifeblood of her kingdom. The author’s imaginative worldbuilding and a heartfelt exploration of loss and connection provide a unique and touching take on the challenge’s premise.

Vanished by Eloise Robertson

Eloise Robertson’s story shines with its lush, fairy-tale setting and exploration of complex relationships among royal sisters. The narrative’s emotional depth, coupled with a subtle layer of intrigue and betrayal, makes it a memorable and enchanting read.

A Decade of Decline by Tyler C Clark

This entry from Tyler C Clark stands out with its high-stakes tension, chronicling a kingdom’s desperate attempts to recover their queen over ten years. The fusion of mythic elements and the devastating consequences of failure make this story both engaging and impactful.

Flight of the Tide Pilots by Addison Alder

With its thrilling action and themes of resistance, this story from Addison Alder presents a unique perspective of ecological rebellion. The protagonist’s daring and the vivid descriptions of futuristic technology make for an unforgettable narrative.

The Riversource by Amelia Grace Newell

Amelia Grace Newell’s story intertwines a magical river with a small-town mystery. Its deft pacing and the relatable protagonist make this tale a satisfying blend of fantasy and suspense.

Of Sin & Sigil by Vagabond Writes

This story excels with its intricate setting and layered characters. Vagabond Writes combines dark magic and courtly intrigue, crafting a prologue that feels both epic and intimate.

Lifeblood by Bailey Bainbridge

Bailey Bainbridge introduces a detective story in a fantastical city driven by its mystical river. The blend of gritty noir and high fantasy offers a fresh take on the challenge prompt.

A Fisherman's Oath by Steph Marie

This heartfelt tale from Steph Marie explores themes of loyalty, love, and sacrifice. The protagonist’s journey through shadowy realms to save his queen is a testament to enduring devotion.

Midnight Dawn by Gary Johnston

Gary Johnston weaves an intense and ominous story of a Revenant’s invasion, blending survival horror with compelling worldbuilding. Its gripping pace and eerie atmosphere keep readers hooked.

The Magikor by J. Nicholas Merchen

This dark and atmospheric entry from J. Nicholas Merchen explores the cost of seeking forbidden power. Its strong sense of foreboding and a morally complex protagonist set it apart as a memorable runner-up.

Explore our current Challenges here.