June 6, 2017 -Prompt – Danger

The sign by the cliff-side read “Danger. Stay on the path.” The rocks rose straight up, crossed with lines and pockmarked with handholds, a climber’s dream despite the raging river and jagged canyon walls below.

Keita Sage looked at her twin brother. “Are you thinking what I’m thinking?”

He was already climbing. “Last one to the top babysits Avie tonight.”

Avie, their younger sister, squawked a protest, but Keita and Glen were already climbing.

The rock crumbled under Keita’s hands. She veered south to keep out of her brother’s way, but the rock here was smooth. Her fingertips found the smallest crack, and her toes bent back painfully as she stuffed her bare feet into the impressions. Was he ahead? She didn’t dare look. Sweat dripped into her eyes and made them sting. Her arms trembled, her fingers seemed rubbed raw. Never mind beating Glen now, she just wanted to get off this cliff without falling.

At last Keita heaved herself over the ridge. She flipped to her back, panting, as her brother joined her.

“Was it worth it?”

Keita whirled. Her dainty sister perched on a nearby boulder, watching them. “How’d you get up here?” she demanded.

“Easy.” Avie’s smile grew. “I followed the switchbacks.”

Christie Powell

(This week’s prompt from Meleesa Stephens.)