
Others have walked this way before me, down the long processional. From the Land of the Living to the Land of the Dead we come, torches bright in the last curtain of the night. Happiness, awe, and fear walk with me, but I am one of a host, and the druids shield us as we enter the great circle.
The solstice sun stabs out through the dark and brushes a finger to the guide stone. A terrible brightness. I cannot look as the year is reborn.
.
Friday fictioneers is a weekly challenge set by Rochelle Wisoff Fields to write a 100-word story in response to a photo prompt. You can find other stories here

Very atmospheric, Neil. I hope it’s just a new year and not all the other terrible possibilities.
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Thanks so much. It’s just a new year, but still full of joy and awe
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You build the atmosphere of suspense with your usual aplomb, Neil
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Thanks so much, CE. It is only a sunrise, but what a sunrise
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Oh my, this is dramatic! Nice one, Neil.
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Thanks so much, Keith
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Somehow bringing in the new year this way instead of fireworks feels more… more!
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Thanks so much, Dale
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Dear Neil,
And what a year it’s been thus far. Atmospheric piece.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Interesting times. Thanks so much, Rochelle
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The build up is great Neil – great read 🙌
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Thanks so much
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A great way to bring in the new year.
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Shock and awe every time
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Excellent commentary, Neil. Your writing is elegant.
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What a lovely comment. Thank you, Nancy
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I like the phrase, the last curtains of the night. Well done.
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Thanks so much
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Well, Neil, this has a deep spiritual piece that shows the natural world at its best.
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Thanks so much, James
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Beautiful writing. In my mind’s eye I see Stonehenge.
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Thanks so much. It was Stonehenge I had in mind
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What a wonderfully mystical tale, Neil. Happy year of the horse to you!
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Thanks so much, Brenda
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very nice. i’d like to emulate your way of expressing thoughts. it’s clear, refined, and thoughtful, making your communication style one i truly admire and hope to develop.
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What a lovely compliment. Thanks so much
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Lovely Neil
It should be full of awe and joy and not drunken shenanigans
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Thanks so much, Laurie
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