Where the Outliers Dwell (short story) - Part 1 to Accompany My | LMAC - FreeStyle No. 10

My current collage project is the tenth installment in my FreeStyle collage theme efforts. The theme for my current Freestyle is "an ancient mystery worth solving". It's an adventure of a young sea maiden who sets out on a search for her origins after reading an entry in an old family safe chamber. She's astonished that her lone search takes her far away from her aquatic home and weaves a path to dry ground.

"Where the Outliers Dwell"

The Stone Men watched behind closed eyes. Scanning the tall, lithe frame and sensing the outline of a female, a consensus was reached. They wouldn't allow passage. Following in succession from bottom upward, each transformed into different hues as if emitting the wavelengths of a programmed tune. Suddenly, the sounds grew louder. The sky darkened, violent waters rushed forth, and wind tore through trees as if purposely summoned.

Have I gone too far? the sea creature, Twalonge, wondered, as she stood facing the Stone Men, clutching the amulet in her hands.

Trembling, thoughts returned to her parents. She remembered hurt and disappointment on their faces as they pleaded with her not to undertake the treacherous journey.

However, after discovering the secret amulet, she needed answers.

Now, her eyes traveled back and forth from the Stone Men to the strange heirloom. Their faces were carved into the center of the amulet.

What did these rock statues have in common with my parents? she wondered, as the sounds, now shrill pitched, drowned out her thoughts.

Not wanting to appear shaken, she pivoted forward slowly and stopped directly in front of them.

Unbearable, she covered her ears to block out the sounds. Doing so allowed the amulet to slip from her palm, dangling from the end of the glowing jeweled necklace.

Immediately, the sounds ceased.

The Stone Men watched behind closed eyes as the carvings in the center of the amulet forged a kindship with them.

In preparing my theme and short story, I located a forest scene that I could use as a background. With an rock sculpture in the middle of the water, it was perfect to play upon a haunted place. I needed only to add additional elements.

Below are the additional images I included to complete my theme:

• Skull and hands at PxFuel

• Bridge by jean52Photosstock at Pixabay

• Double eagle Contributed to the #LIL by @seckorama

• Fire star Contributed to the #LIL by @adncabrera

• Queen of the sea Contributed to the #LIL by @adncabrera

• Flowers Contributed to the #LIL by @eve66

• Fractal Mandala Bowl - Silver Contributed to the #LIL by @justclickindiva