magisternihil's 100-word story for January 15, 2026

magisternihil wrote the following micro-story on Hectalex on January 15, 2026. Each story on Hectalex is inspired by a daily visual prompt and must be exactly 100 words.

“I’m so sick of towers,” moaned Sim, “and I’m sick of this endless choosing.” The watchtower sat on the corner of the structure overlooking the sea. It was the first time he had smelled truly fresh air since his journey began, not some simulated reconstruction of freshness and freedom. With a resigned shrug he pulled the door open and gasped. “Noc?” She stood inside tapping impatiently. She had a scar now, across her cheek, that looked old. How long have they been doing this? “About time you showed up,” she said, and she turned and walked down the spiral stairs.

Want to write flash fiction like this? Join the daily challenge at Hectalex.com and discover how powerful 100 words can be.