April 3, 2023, prompt: Write a story about a dog in the desert in 99 words (no more, no less). Why is the dog there? Who else is involved? Is there a deeper metaphor you can make of the desert? Go where the prompt leads! Click here for details.
Space Barks – by Hugh W. Roberts
Lassie roamed the barren wastelands of a far-off desert planet. She was no ordinary dog. The genetically engineered work to withstand the planet’s harsh conditions and assist in the search for a rare mineral was crucial to the survival of all humanity.
With her advanced sensors and augmented strength, she scoured the dunes, her nose forever twitching as she detected the faintest traces of the mineral.
Triumphantly barking again, she dug up a cache of the precious substance.
Now, the humans could survive, knowing their trusty dog companion had saved the day and helped them beat the virus again.
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Written for the 99-word flash fiction challenge hosted by Charli Mills at the Carrot Ranch.
Click here to view last week’s entries.
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Enjoyed this piece of flash fiction? Then you’ll love ‘Glimpses.’
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Glimpses
28 short stories and pieces of flash fiction take the reader on a rollercoaster of twists and turns.
Paperback – £4.99
Kindle – £0.99
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Hugh's Views & News 
Good Lassie! A unique tale, futuristic and old time classic at once.
Glad you enjoyed it, D And I like that it gave a classic feel.
Well done, Lassie. I’m pleased we humans get to survive. Another surprise Hugh ending. 🙂
Thanks, Norah. I found this one rather challenging to write.
You did well. I had to stretch a little for mine too.
Very nice YA piece Hugh. I miss the inclusion of animals and especially pets in most modern stories I have read. I recall Andrea Norton having a series of books where animal partners featured prominently. Where have those stories gone?
Thanks, Will.
You’re right. We don’t see pets featured much in books, although I used to love reading Enid Blyton’s Secret Seven books, where a pet dog called Scamp also featured a lot. I read the whole series even though I struggled with dyslexia. Her writing and stories were so easy to follow.
First of all, photo of the dog is adorable, Hugh. Secondly, a wonderful post about the loyalty and intelligence of our canine companions. Great story and a really fun idea for a whole book. Happy Easter to you and your family, from Bryce canyon National Park in Southern Utah! 🐾☀️
Charli (the host of the 99-word flash fiction challenge) finds all the photos, Terri. Glad you enjoyed my piece of flash to go with it.
Happy Easter to you all. 🐣 Have a wonderful day.
Man’s best friend to the rescue! Excellent storytelling, Hugh.
Thanks so much, Eugi.
You’re welcome, Hugh.
Space Barks! Too cute. You better copyright it before it gets stolen!
It already is. Once it’s on the blog, it’s copyrighted.
Hooray for Lassie 💜💜💜
Where would we be without dogs…
Exactly, Cathy. Loyal, loveable, and saviours.
A dog – a man’s best friend and savior, in so many ways! I’m sure Lassie is up for that job better than Maya, who’s middle name is Trouble! 🙂
But I know you wouldn’t be without the lovely Maya, Liesbet. They help us in our lives in so many ways.
Lassie to the rescue once again. Where would we be without our amazing canine friends?
Exactly. They’re always there for us no matter what happens.
Aw, Lassie to the rescue ❤️. Takes Me back to childhood and Lassie 😁
I’m always amazed at your ability to get your stories into 99 words
I’ve been participating in this 99-word flash fiction challenge since my early blogging days, Brenda. My love for flash fiction has grown a lot since then.