22/06/2023
Been working on this story. What do you think
Hunter's Reflection
The crisp autumn morning greeted Thomas as he made his way through the dense forest towards his treestand. It was his favorite spot, nestled high above the ground, providing a perfect vantage point for observing wildlife. As he climbed up the ladder, anticipation coursed through his veins. Little did he know that this day would be unlike any other.
Settling into his stand, Thomas adjusted his camouflage gear and checked his hunting rifle. He took a deep breath, letting the tranquility of the woods wash over him. The rustling of leaves and the distant songs of birds enveloped him, creating a serene symphony of nature.
Hours passed, and Thomas remained vigilant. He watched as a flock of birds fluttered above, their wings painting the sky with elegance. Squirrels danced from tree to tree, collecting acorns in preparation for the impending winter. A family of deer cautiously made their way through the underbrush, their graceful movements captivating Thomas's attention.
Yet, amid these captivating scenes, something felt off. Vague memories of his family invaded his thoughts—snapshots of laughter, joy, and love. The memories both warmed his heart and stirred an unsettling unease within him.
As the sun gradually sank behind the dense curtain of trees, casting elongated shadows, Thomas shifted his gaze downwards, momentarily distracted by a sensation of dizziness. It was then that he caught sight of something that froze his blood in his veins.
Lying motionless on the ground below, sprawled in an unnatural position, was a lifeless body—his own body. A wave of terror crashed over him as he struggled to comprehend the macabre sight before his eyes. How could this be? Was it some cruel trick of his imagination? A nightmare he couldn't wake up from?
As panic consumed him, the world around him faded to black, and the weight of darkness pressed against his consciousness. But when he next opened his eyes, he found himself back in his treestand, the rising sun painting the horizon with hues of golden light. The day had reset, and Thomas was caught in an eternal loop.
Confusion and fear intertwined as Thomas attempted to make sense of his predicament. Every sunrise brought the haunting repetition of his final moments, replaying endlessly like a cursed tape. The beauty of the forest now carried an ominous shadow, and the memories of his family only served to deepen his despair.
With each iteration, Thomas sought to alter his fate, to uncover the truth behind his demise. He meticulously inspected every inch of his treestand, searching for any hidden flaws or potential hazards. He studied the patterns of the birds, squirrels, and deer, seeking a clue that might unravel the mystery.
Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and yet Thomas remained trapped within the enigma of his own demise. He grew wearier, his spirit fading as he fought against the relentless cycle. But deep within him, a glimmer of determination still burned, refusing to yield.
And so, Thomas ventured forth each day, his heart heavy with the weight of uncertainty, his eyes fixed on the ever-elusive truth. He hoped that someday, amidst the endless repetition, he would discover the key to unlock the mystery of his own death, and finally find peace.
